President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday emphasized the importance of active public participation in social issues, saying citizens’ involvement is essential to realizing his vision for a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines).
In his latest vlog, Marcos thanked Filipinos who sent letters and messages following his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, and encouraged the public to continue taking part in discussions and efforts concerning the country’s development.
“Ang inyong aktibong pakikilahok sa mga usaping panlipunan ay mga katangian ng pagiging isang bagong Pilipino (Your active participation in social issues is a characteristic of being a new Filipino),” he said.
He said the SONA should be viewed as a continuing effort to address the country’s concerns and fulfill the aspirations of Filipinos.
He noted that he received various messages, including letters from young Filipinos, raising concerns about health, hunger and other pressing issues affecting their families and communities.
He read letters from members of the Youth for Health Coalition, including one from a young Filipino whose father is undergoing dialysis while the family struggles with hunger.
Marcos said the concerns raised in the letter reflected the importance of government programs aimed at addressing food insecurity and improving access to healthcare.
He cited the government’s Walang Gutom (Zero Humger) Program, which provides assistance to Filipinos who need food and are not assured of having three meals a day.
He also pointed to assistance provided to local government units for the distribution of 10-kilogram sacks of rice to families in need, saying the program is being carried out six times a year.
Marcos cited government feeding programs covering Kindergarten and Grade 1 students, as well as other students who need assistance.
Another letter from Youth for Health Coalition convener Aliyah Mae Lozari called for greater attention to health concerns affecting them, including alcohol use and the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
The letter stressed the need to prioritize legislation and health measures addressing these issues.
Marcos said the concerns were timely, noting that healthcare remains among the government’s top priorities.
“Kahit gaano ka kasikat, kahit gaano ka kayaman kapag ikaw ay may sakit, hindi magiging maganda ang buhay mo (No matter how famous or how wealthy you are, if you are sick, your life will not be good),” he said.
“Kaya’t iyan ang aming inuuna. Kaya’t napakataas na priority ang kalusugan ng ating kabataan, ang kalusugan ng ating mamamayan (That is why this is what we prioritize. The health of our young people and the health of our citizens are among our highest priorities),” Marcos added.
Marcos assured those who sent letters and messages that their concerns would continue to be heard.
He said the country’s progress requires more than government action, emphasizing the citizens’ role in shaping the nation’s future. (PNA)
