All employees of the Office of the President (OP) will be receiving a PHP60,000 Christmas bonus this year.
Palace Social Secretary Annalyn Tolentino bared this during the lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree led by President Rodrigo Duterte at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañan Complex.
She initially announced that OP employees will receive a PHP50,000 and an additional PHP10,000 which drew cheers from the crowd.
Last year, the OP employees only received a PHP50,000 Christmas bonus.
In his speech, Duterte thanked the OP employees “for demonstrating unwavering commitment and the highest standards of professionalism in public service”.
“In your genuine desire to serve our country, this administration was able to fulfill its promise to the Filipino people. Your dedication towards the work that you do is truly inspiring,” Duterte said in his speech.
“As we light up the Christmas tree in this historic grounds of Malacañang, it is my ardent hope that it will serve as a reminder for everyone to continue lighting up the lives of others especially those who are suffering from poverty and injustice,” he added.
He, meanwhile, urged OP employees continue to continue to ensure that Filipinos enjoy the services of an “efficient, responsive, and progressive government in the year to come”.
After switching on the lights of the Christmas tree and all the lanterns within the Kalayaan grounds, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra performed “Joy to the World” to the delight of the crowd.
Also present during the event were Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles. (PNA)
