Marcos: Share our blessings with poor

President Marcos on Friday urged Filipinos to not forget the poor as the country celebrated the feast of the Immaculate Conception, a national holiday in the Philippines. “May this auspicious occasion allow us to fortify our Christian faith and inspire our fellow faithful to share our blessings to the poor and marginalized as a way of perpetuating peace, generosity, and kindness around us,” he said in his message. The President, who is currently in isolation after he tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week, told Filipinos to embrace the virtues of purity, modesty and faith exemplified by the Blessed Mother. “During these challenging times for our country, let us draw inspiration from the narrative of the Immaculate Conception as we overcome our limitations and draw on our strengths to see the world with grateful hearts and explore the deep meaning of our purpose in life,” he said. He asked Filipinos to pray for the continued guidance of the Lord Almighty and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary “as we join hands to build the Bagong Pilipinas that Filipinos aspire for.” In July this year, the government launched the “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines), which is now the administration’s governance slogan. —NESTOR CORRALES