President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is hopeful that remembering the saints and departed loved ones will help Filipinos cope with anguish and distress.

In his message for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, Marcos said the Covid-19 pandemic has forced everyone to “come to terms with mortality”.

“It taught us to number our days as we realize the uncertainty of our time on Earth. It made us contemplate what it truly means to live a meaningful life and to die free of regrets and at peace with oneself,” he said on Sunday.

He enjoined Filipinos to find lessons that will result in healing.

“As we gain momentum towards complete recovery, I pray that our efforts to remember the saints and our late loved ones will bring healing to our hearts,” he said. “May it likewise reinforce the foundations of our faith and compel us to live with genuine love and compassion in all of our days.”

Both holidays serve as a reminder “to strive, live Christ-centered lives, and fulfill our life’s purpose until we meet our Creator,” Marcos said.

The predominantly-Catholic Philippines annually observes All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day every November 1 and 2, respectively.

October 31 and November 1 are non-working holidays.

Some local government units allow only fully or partially vaccinated individuals in cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria.

Currently, the wearing of face masks outdoors and indoors is optional.

However, mandatory wearing of face masks will still be implemented in healthcare facilities, medical transport vehicles, and public transportation. (PNA)