Malacañang is urging all government agencies to refrain from lavish celebrations this Christmas in solidarity with the victims of the six typhoons that struck the country, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s request.
"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," Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said in an official statement on Tuesday.
Bersamin emphasized that there is no need for an official written order, as they are confident in the kindness of government employees, who will voluntarily adopt a more modest approach to their celebrations.
Malacañang also encouraged that any funds saved from simpler holiday celebrations be redirected to assist communities devastated by the recent calamities.
"The true spirit of Christmas implores us to celebrate with compassion, to share our blessings, and to spread cheer. As people united by love for our fellow men, we can cast away bleakness as we celebrate in this season of joy," said Bersamin.
The government pledged to make the Christmas spirit felt early in all affected areas through the distribution of relief goods, assistance with infrastructure rebuilding, and the restoration of livelihoods.
Moreover, Christmas will still be celebrated, alongside Filipinos greatly affected by the recent calamities.
The country was battered by a series of six typhoons, namely Tropical Cyclones Kristine, Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel, and the recent Typhoon Pepito, which just exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
