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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos on welcoming Lunar New Year: Move with purposeful haste

Marcos on welcoming Lunar New Year: Move with purposeful haste

Published Feb 17, 2026 08:26 am
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (MB File Photo)
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (MB File Photo)
President Marcos has urged Filipinos to "move with purposeful haste," matching the Fire Horse’s symbolism of courage and forward motion with discipline, hard work, and sound governance.
In his message for the Chinese New Year, Marcos stressed the importance of having direction in every thing we do.
"I invite all Filipinos to move with purposeful haste—swift when necessary; measured when it matters most. Momentum can be energizing, but direction is what truly delivers results," Marcos said in his message on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
"Let us protect what is essential such as fair opportunity and reliable public services, while enhancing productivity, stronger value chains. and communities that never leave the vulnerable behind," he added.
"If we keep our course firm and our standards high, we can shape a more prosperous, agile, and empowered bagong Pilipinas," he went on.
Marcos further said that the season is an opportunity for renewal and purposeful action for Filipinos, noting that it is a moment to align personal, community, and national efforts toward growth and prosperity.
“It is a time when households, communities, and businesses set priorities, execute plans, and focus on what truly sustains them. Across generations, we have come to see prosperity as something we cultivate: built by everyday work, guided by discipline, and multiplied when it creates jobs and supports initiatives that hold our people together," he said.
The President underscored that while the Horse and Fire evoke energy and boldness, real progress depends on prudent households, productive industries, and reliable public service.
“The Horse is often read as a sign of movement, courage, and forward motion, while the Fire element suggests a spark that refuses to settle for the usual pace,” Marcos stated.
He said these symbols convey great meaning for many, "but the nation does not advance on symbolism alone."
The Chief Executive emphasized the nation progresses when Filipinos show up for work, when households make every peso count with prudence and good judgment, and when government and industries keep the country growing through consistent service, sound decisions, and the rigor that turns daily effort into long-term growth.
He wished everyone a "spirited, bountiful, and rewarding year ahead."

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