President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday promised that the government would employ all available resources to ensure that every Filipino will experience a “merry Christmas” this year despite global challenges and adversities affecting the country.

In his speech during a gift-giving event for residents of Marillac Hills and Haven for Women in Muntinlupa City, President Marcos emphasized the importance of fostering the Christmas spirit, especially among children.

“Kahit na tinamaan tayo ng kung anu-anong bagyo, kahit na nasunugan ang mga iba’t ibang lugar, kahit papaano tiyakin natin [na] tayong lahat, lahat ng Pilipino, lalo na itong mga maliliit, itong mga bata, ay makaramdam ng Pasko (Even though we were hit by various typhoons and fires occurred in different places, we must ensure that all of us, especially the children, feel the spirit of Christmas),” Marcos said.

“Basta kami sa pamahalaan, titiyakin namin lahat ng Pilipino ay may merry Christmas ngayong 2024 (We in the government will ensure that all Filipinos have a merry Christmas this 2024),” he added.

The President distributed gifts and various forms of assistance to residents of the two centers, which cater to victims of abuse and exploitation.

Marcos provided 20 sacks of 50-kilo rice to Marillac Hills and 10 sacks to Haven for Women.

He also donated food packs, medicines, vitamins, toiletries and infant supplies to support the needs of the residents.

In return, the residents performed a heartfelt “thank you” song to express their gratitude for the President’s compassion and leadership.

Under President Marcos, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has supported 1,837 children in need of special protection — those affected by trafficking, physical and sexual abuse, and neglect — through its service centers and residential care facilities.

The department’s community-based initiatives have also served 3,616 children requiring similar protection.

Additionally, the agency provided various forms of assistance, including medical, financial, legal, and psychosocial support, to 939 victims of violence against women.

Support post-Christmas

President Marcos said the government will continue supporting disaster-hit Filipinos even after Christmas, reiterating the administration’s commitment to aid those in need until they have fully recovered.

The President gave the assurance during his visit to the Manila Boys Town Complex, where he also distributed gift packs to residents.

Established on March 3, 1947, the complex is managed by the Manila DSWD.

“’Wag niyo pong iisipin na hindi kayo namin inaalala. At kung anuman ang pangangailangan ninyo, nandiyan po ang ating mga local government officials, nandiyan po ang ating DSWD (Do not think that we are not thinking of you. Whatever you need, our local government officials and the DSWD are here),” Marcos said.

He highlighted the collaboration with local government units and the DSWD in providing continuous support for calamity victims.

President Marcos reiterated his Christmas wish for a joyful and prosperous season for all Filipinos, particularly those recovering from life’s challenges.

“Lahat po ay ating ginagawa para patuloy po na matupad iyang aming panalangin na lahat ng Pilipino ay maramdaman ‘yung Christmas spirit, (We are doing everything to ensure that our prayer — that every Filipino feels the Christmas spirit — is fulfilled),” he said. (PNA)