As the world navigates the complexities of a post-pandemic era, marked by shifting global dynamics and technological transformations, Filipino leaders stand united in heralding a “Jubilee of Hope.” This convergence of messages—from Cardinal Jose Advincula’s homily during the Feast of Jesus Nazareno to Nobel Peace Laureate Maria Ressa’s insights at the Vatican’s Jubilee of the World of Communications last week—highlights the power of hope as a force for resilience, renewal, and progress.
In his homily at the Feast of Jesus Nazareno, Cardinal Advincula encapsulated the essence of hope with his declaration that “Hope is life.” Addressing millions of Filipino devotees, he reminded the faithful that amid trials and suffering, hope remains a wellspring of strength that sustains humanity. The Jesus Nazareno, a symbol of faith deeply embedded in the Filipino soul, embodies this message. Devotees, many of whom carry the weight of personal and collective struggles, turn to their faith not just for solace but for the courage to move forward.
Cardinal Advincula’s call resonates deeply with the theme of the Vatican’s Jubilee of the World of Communications, observed from Jan. 24 to 26, 2025. This three-day celebration emphasized the transformative power of truth and human connection in fostering hope in an increasingly fractured world. Pope Francis himself has long championed communication as a tool for dialogue and unity, urging the global community to harness it responsibly to bridge divides.
On the opening day of the Jubilee, Maria Ressa, a Filipino journalist and Nobel laureate, brought the message home with a poignant reminder: “We must go back to our values…remember the good, and then gain hope and strength from that.” Her words, steeped in the wisdom of experience, offer a roadmap for navigating the uncertainties of the digital age. In a time when misinformation, polarization, and cynicism often dominate discourse, the call to revisit core values such as truth, integrity, and compassion serves as a beacon of hope.
For Filipinos, this convergence of faith and communication is deeply symbolic. The Philippines, a nation built on resilience, draws its strength from its people’s unwavering belief in the power of faith, family, and community. These values have guided the country through countless challenges — natural disasters, political upheavals, and global crises. Now, in the face of new challenges such as digital disinformation, economic recovery, and climate change, these same values can serve as the foundation for a brighter future.
The Jubilee of Hope is a call to action for Filipino leaders in all sectors of society. In governance, it means promoting transparency, justice, and inclusivity to restore public trust. In media, it entails committing to responsible journalism that informs rather than inflames. In communities, it calls for nurturing dialogue and collaboration to address shared challenges.
Hope is not passive; it is an active pursuit of better days ahead. It requires courage to confront uncomfortable truths, determination to make necessary changes, and faith in the inherent goodness of humanity. As Filipinos reflect on Cardinal Advincula’s reminder that “Hope is life” and Maria Ressa’s call to “remember the good,” they are reminded that hope is not only a source of personal strength but also a collective responsibility.
Let this Jubilee of Hope inspire leaders and citizens alike to unite and embrace the vision of a future where truth, faith, and compassion prevail, and demonstrate the enduring power of hope in a world longing for renewal.