Yesterday’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Malacañang was headed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos. Despite claims of an issue between the two top officials, Vice President Sara Duterte was notably absent.
Despite the difficulties posed by recent disasters, President Marcos stressed in his speech the value of enjoying the holidays. “Filipinos deserve to feel the joy of Christmas, even after enduring six typhoons in just 23 days,” according to him. He urged everyone to keep in mind those who are still recuperating from the terrible storms. “My Christmas wish is that every Filipino can somehow experience the spirit of Christmas,” he said.
Deputy Social Secretary Dina Arroyo Tantoco clarified that all officials, including Vice President Duterte, were invited to the event.
The evening also highlighted Filipino creativity, with President Marcos presenting awards to the top three winners of the National Parol-Making Competition, themed “Isang Bituin, Isang Mithiin.” The contest was a collaboration between the Office of the President, the Office of the Social Secretary, and the Department of Education.
The event was attended by several senators, including Grace Poe, Koko Pimentel, and Jinggoy Estrada, who joined in celebrating the holiday festivities.
