Tone down Yule parties, Palace tells agencies
Malacañang on Tuesday urged government agencies to refrain from holding lavish Christmas celebrations in sympathy with the victims of the typhoons that hit the country this year.
In a statement, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the Palace call was in accordance with President Marcos’ directive on Monday.
“In compliance with the call of our President, we urge all the agencies of government to avoid holding grand celebrations this coming Christmas season,” he said.
“This call is in solidarity with the millions of our countrymen who continue to grieve over lives, homes and livelihoods lost during the six typhoons that pummeled us in a span of less than a month,” Bersamin added.
On Monday, Mr. Marcos called on Filipinos to remember the survivors of the past cyclones, especially those that came in rapid succession over the last four weeks.
“Hopefully, when Christmastime comes, we Filipinos can remember our countrymen who were affected by calamities. And perhaps, instead of spending on gifts, we could share what we have with them (as) they are suffering and in need,” the President said.
“The true spirit of Christmas implores us to celebrate with compassion, to share our blessings, and to spread cheer. As a people united by love for our fellow men, we can cast away bleakness as we celebrate in this season of joy,” he said.
Bersamin said an official order to keep the parties simple would no longer be issued because we believe in the kindness of our fellow government workers, whom we fully trust can unilaterally adopt austerity in their celebrations.”
Guards can’t be ‘Santa’
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police, through its Civil Security Group (CSG), reminded shopping malls and other business establishments that their security guards cannot dress up like Santa Claus or put on Christmas-themed costumes.
CSG director Maj. Gen. Leo Francisco on Tuesday said criminals could take advantage of this supposed holiday gimmick by putting on the same disguises.
“Maybe if it’s a Santa Claus hat, we could give it a pass. But when they deviate from their prescribed uniforms entirely, that’s not allowed,” Francisco told reporters.
Security agencies should first seek approval from the CSG if they plan to depart from the prescribed uniform standards, he said, adding that sanctions and fines will be imposed for violations of uniform regulations.
“We have lots of cases where criminals exploited this with ill intent. That’s what we are avoiding this season,” Francisco said. —WITH A REPORT FROM FRANCES MANGOSING
