“Let us become a source of light and goodness to our fellow Filipinos this Christmas and in the years to come.”

President Ferdinand R. Marcos thus encouraged Filipinos to embody the spirit of Christmas through acts of compassion, generosity and assistance for those in need as he led the nation in celebrating Christ’s birth.

In his message, President Marcos emphasized the spirit of Filipino Christmas as a time for joy, reflection and sharing blessings with others especially those facing hardship.

“I join the entire nation as we celebrate the joyful and blessed day of Christmas. Once again, it is the time of the year when we gather to honor the birth of Christ our Savior, thank the Lord Almighty for all the graces that we have received throughout the year, and enjoy the company of our dearest friends, families, and loved ones,” President Marcos said.

“Truly, no other occasion stirs a warmer and more festive spirit in all of us than the Filipino Christmas, which gives us countless moments to appreciate and cherish life’s many blessings,” the President continued.

President Marcos reminded that amid the festive gatherings, the essence of the season lies in compassion and generosity to those who require help.

“As we enjoy our gatherings, let us also remember those who are in most need of our compassion and generosity- the poor, sick, calamity-stricken, and marginalized. Like Jesus who brought salvation to the world, let us share our abundance with the people around us,” said the President, who also called for special focus on the children.

“Let us bring kindness, happiness, and good cheer to everyone we meet, especially to our children for whom these festivities are really for,” the President said.

Finally, President Marcos wished for the fulfillment of everyone’s cherished aspirations and for the enduring guidance of love and goodwill in families and communities.

“It is my fervent hope that the deepest desires of our hearts be fulfilled, and that love and goodwill continue to guide our families and communities,” the President said. | PND

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” The oft-quoted phrase could sum up the year 2025 for the country and for the President.

The period marked a series of decisive actions by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as he initiated and pursued accountability in public office by going after individuals linked to anomalous projects, underscoring a firm commitment to clean and transparent governance.

President Marcos is the first president to expose and pursue actions against corruption, as good governance and accountability became defining pillars of his administration.

The President also intensified efforts to deepen international partnerships, advance inclusive social reforms, strengthen food security, and improve public services.

During his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28, the President strongly condemned anomalous flood control projects, delivering the unforgettable line, “Mahiya naman kayo sa inyong kapwa Pilipino!,” and calling out systemic corruption and demanding accountability.

Personally inspecting flood control projects, President Marcos intensified the administration’s crackdown on corruption, ordered the recovery of public funds, and encouraged public participation through the launch of the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Transparency Portal.

On September 11, President Marcos signed Executive Order No. 94, which created the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to investigate alleged irregularities in flood control and related projects over the past decade.

The President also voiced support for peaceful anti-corruption protests, emphasizing that public office is a public trust and that no individual involved in irregularities would be spared.

The President also ordered the realignment of the flood control budget for next year to priority programs.

As the Office of the Ombudsman has begun filing charges and arrest warrants have been issued, President Marcos asserted that the government would continue to pursue filing criminal cases against all those involved in flood control irregularities.

Disaster, crisis response

President Marcos was hands-on in leading disaster response and resilience, which emerged as key priorities in 2025 following the successive impacts of Super Typhoon Nando and Typhoon Opong in September, a 6.9-magnitude earthquake in Cebu the same month, the double 7.4- and 6.8-magnitude earthquake in Davao Oriental in October, and Typhoon Tino and Super Typhoon Uwan in November.

The President ordered full government mobilization and directed all relevant agencies to implement relief operations and ensure the timely distribution of food, emergency supplies, and financial assistance to affected communities.

President Marcos personally visited disaster-stricken areas, including Cebu, Catanduanes, Albay, Negros Occidental, and northern provinces of Luzon, assessing the situation on the ground, coordinating with local government units, and ensuring that aid reached the most vulnerable populations.

On November 6, the President declared a one-year state of national calamity to bolster disaster recovery and enhance future resilience.

To address long-term vulnerabilities, the President launched the nationwide Oplan Kontra Baha starting in Metro Manila and Cebu in November and Bacolod in December, a program aimed at mitigating chronic flooding through waterways clearing and cleaning operations under government-private sector coordination.

Health, education reforms

Under President Marcos, the government rigorously implemented the zero balance billing policy, ensuring that patients admitted to basic or ward accommodations in Department of Health (DOH)-listed hospitals had their medical expenses fully covered.

Just a few months since the President announced the policy during his fourth SONA, more than one million Filipinos have benefited from the policy designed to ease the financial burden on patients and improve healthcare access in the country.

A substantial boost in the benefit packages under the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) further alleviated the financial burden on beneficiaries.

Complementing these measures, the nationwide rollout of Yaman ng Kalusugan (YAKAP) health caravans provided accessible medical services to communities while the establishment of Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service (BUCAS) centers provided free outpatient care.

In education, President Marcos’ administration advanced comprehensive reforms aimed at enhancing learning opportunities and outcomes.

The signing of the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Act enabled working professionals to earn college degrees through the recognition of prior learning and work experience.

The delivery of laptops, digital learning tools and satellite internet to public schools especially in underserved areas empowered learners and teachers alike.

Education reforms were prioritized through the fine-tuning of the K–12 curriculum, the signing of the Early Childhood Care and Development System Act, the addition of thousands of new teaching posts, and support for teachers’ welfare and professional growth.

At the same time, President Marcos ordered the strengthening and wider reach of the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) to provide financial support to more deserving college students.

President Marcos directed measures to support learners and their families, including transport discounts, which eased commuting costs.

Social protection, food security

President Marcos spearheaded job fairs and improved transportation systems and commuter experience through fare discounts for students, senior citizens, and families and provision of e-shuttle services for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The President also swiftly addressed community concerns such as the Siquijor power shortage, Bulacan schools’ water supply, and the San Juanico Bridge rehabilitation.

President Marcos intensified efforts to promote inclusive economic growth by implementing programs that directly benefit workers, farmers, and small businesses. Key initiatives included the historic Social Security System (SSS) pension reforms, which provided retirees with increased and timely benefits, alongside executive orders that strengthened workers’ rights and ensured their freedom of association.

President Marcos’ administration also expanded the 4Ps conditional cash transfer program to reach more vulnerable families and scaled up the AKSYON Fund to provide critical support for overseas Filipino workers.

To address food security, the government distributed fertilizer and farm machinery, established fair floor prices for palay, adjusted rice import policies to stabilize supply and prices, and invested in agri-processing and fish ports infrastructure to modernize farming and increase farmer incomes.

The President also launched the Benteng Bigas Meron Na program to ensure access to affordable rice for vulnerable sectors and bolster food security.

The administration of President Marcos accelerated the country’s digital transformation, expanding the eGovPH Super App to provide more accessible government services.

President Marcos launched the eGovPH Serbisyo Hub in San Juan City to allow easier access and faster services from government agencies gathered under one center.

On President Marcos’ guidance, efforts were made to improve digital connectivity including faster SIM card distribution and the rollout of the Free Wi-Fi for All program, ensuring that government services, education, and communications reached even the most remote areas.

Also, cybersecurity measures were simultaneously strengthened to protect citizens’ data and maintain trust in digital government platforms.

On the instructions of President Marcos, the Department of Transportation deployed Dalian trains, which had been idle for nearly 10 years, to augment MRT-3 operations, significantly improving mass transit efficiency in Metro Manila. Airport upgrades at key tourism gateways enhanced both domestic and international travel, stimulating tourism and supporting local economic growth.

Additionally, President Marcos’ order for the 100 percent electrification of households brought more communities into the national grid.

The President and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos brought government services directly to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) through the OFW Serbisyo Caravan conducted in 11 key cities for migrant Filipinos.

Designed as a one-stop service hub, the Serbisyo Caravan provided OFWs convenient access to multiple government services, such as welfare and legal aid, documentation, social security and national ID enrollment.

Security, peace and order

The President maintained full support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, pushing forward modernization efforts and internal and external security measures.

In fighting crime, the President ordered heightened police patrols, faster response time for emergencies through the new Unified 911 System, and intensified operations against drug syndicates.

Just three years into President Marcos’ term, the amount of illegal drugs confiscated has already nearly matched the total haul seized over the entire six-year term of the previous administration.

At the same time, the number of fatalities under President Marcos’ administration remains a very small fraction of those recorded during the previous administration, highlighting a shift toward a more humane and reform-focused strategy.

For the welfare of military and uniformed personnel, the President approved an adjustment in base pay to be implemented in three tranches beginning on January 1, 2026, and raised the daily subsistence allowance to PhP350.

Meanwhile, leadership changes and key appointments ensured continuity and stability in governance.

Diplomacy, ASEAN Chairship

President Marcos pursued an active foreign policy throughout 2025, strengthening alliances and expanding regional and global partnerships.

State visits to Cambodia and India, participation in Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) engagements, and high-level meetings during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit further underscored the Philippines’ commitment to multilateralism, regional stability, and international trade and security partnerships.

In November, President Marcos formally launched the Philippines’ ASEAN 2026 Chairship with the theme “Navigating our Future, Together,” focusing on peace and security anchors, prosperity corridors, and people empowerment.

The year 2025 reflected President Marcos’ multifaceted approach to governance—anchored on accountability, resilience, and the delivery of tangible improvements in the everyday lives of Filipinos. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. lightened the holiday mood and gamely answered humorous questions from netizens, sharing practical advice and playful remarks on Christmas traditions—from exchanging gifts and potluck dishes to inaanak obligations—while wishing Filipinos a joyful, safe, and meaningful celebration of the season.

In the BBM VLOG 275: Christmas 2025 released on Tuesday, President Marcos jokingly said, “Sa dinami-dami ng problema na hinaharap natin sa opisina araw-araw, dumagdag pa sa iniisip ko itong mga tanong na natanggap natin. Kaya ngayon susubukan natin sagutin isa-isa.”

To the question whether it is all right to pass on to someone else gifts received in a gift exchange, the President reminded Filipinos to value the thought behind every gift while suggesting that presents can be passed on to others who may benefit more from the gift.

“Siyempre pagka natanggap mo kahit anuman ‘yung natanggap mo, siyempre naka-smile ka at saka ‘Thank you.’ Alalahanin mo ito naman kahit ano pa ang nabigay sa inyo, kahit mayroon ka na, ito ay galing sa puso nung nagbigay. Iyon ang alalahanin natin,” the President said.

“Pero hindi naman dapat na masayang. Ipasa ninyo sa ibang tao na makikinabang doon sa magandang regalo na ‘yun,” added the President.

On the question of how much leche flan should one have, President Marcos joked about holiday indulgences, saying Christmas is a time to enjoy food without too many restrictions, while reminding hosts to prepare enough for everyone.

Another netizen asked how many pieces of lumpiang shanghai one should eat, to which President Marcos laughingly replied, “Basta’t nabubusog kayo, again, Pasko naman eh, dapat medyo mag-enjoy tayo. Huwag natin iniisip na kailangan magpigil sa ating kasiyahan. Kaya ulit ‘yung mga maghahanda ng pagkain, dami-damihan na lang ninyo para may baon pa pauwi.”

President Marcos also gamely replied to the question how to react to comments from relatives about having gained weight.

“Madaling sagutin ‘yan. ‘Uy, tumaba ka!’ ‘Oo nga eh. Ikaw din,” said the President.

In the latest BBM VLOG, First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos joined the President in replying to the question.

The First Lady gamely replied, “Dapat naman, wala akong stress. Happy ako.”

To another netizen’s question whether ninongs and ninangs can evade giving gifts to their godchildren, President Marcos said they could not hide because they are easy to find.

“Kaya kumpleto ang listahan namin doon sa aming mga inaanak at marami-rami din,” said the President, suggesting sending cash gifts through electronic wallet apps to godchildren one cannot personally meet.

Even the traditional potluck for Christmas parties was asked of the President.

“Ang gagawin ko para makarami at saka madaling gawin, spaghetti,” said the President.

President Marcos wished Filipinos a happy and peaceful holiday with their families and friends. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday reminded Filipinos to be mindful of their health and safety to ensure a joyous Christmas celebration.

In the BBM VLOG 275: Christmas 2025 released on Tuesday, President Marcos wished Filipinos a joyful and peaceful Christmas celebration with their families and loved ones.

“Sana ay masaya at mapayapa ang inyong pagdiriwang kasama ang inyong mga kaanak at kaibigan mapayapa,” said the President.

The President cautioned Filipinos against excessive eating during Christmas parties and gatherings, citing reports of an increase in heart attack cases during the season.

“Sa pagkain, ‘yung sakto lang po. Alam ninyo naman mataas ang mga kaso ng heart attack ngayong panahon dahil napaparami po ang kain natin ng taba,” reminded the President.

The Chief Executive also reminded motorists to prioritize safe driving amid the Christmas festivities.

“Ingat lang po sa pagmamaneho kung saan po kayo pupunta,” said the President.

Finally, the President urged Filipinos to avoid the use of fireworks in celebrating New Year’s Day, encouraging the use of toy trumpets and other noisy toys to safely welcome the New Year.

“At siyempre mag-ingat sa mga paputok. Iwasan na natin ‘yan. Doon na po tayo sa mga torotot at iba pang maingay na mga laruan para kumpleto at masaya ang pagsalubong natin sa darating na Bagong Taon,” President Marcos said.

Every year, the Department of Health (DOH) records hundreds of cases of injuries nationwide related to the use of fireworks during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. | PND

“The nation is safe because of you standing guard. Our children go to school, our livelihoods thrive, and our holidays are peaceful because you are on duty.”

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday thus praised the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its accomplishments in ensuring the security and protecting the freedom and sovereignty of the nation.

Recognizing the more than 160,000 personnel of the AFP, President Marcos highlighted the organization’s accomplishments over the past year against internal and external threats.

“Our defense posture has been strengthened through their presence, preparedness, and professionalism,” said President Marcos during the 90th anniversary of the AFP in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

The President also cited the AFP’s expanded cybersecurity operations, which secured the country’s systems against evolving digital and technological threats.

AFP’s humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations have also saved lives, restored order, and delivered hope to communities in need, the President added.

For maritime domain operations, President Marcos said the AFP continues to conduct cooperative activities, demonstrating to the international community the Philippines’ adherence to upholding international law.

“And in the same vein, we remain firm and clear with our stance: what is ours is ours. We stand our ground, with purpose and without apology,” the President pointed out.

“As the Christmas season is upon us, a time of faith, family, and reflection, remember this: your service gives meaning to the peace we celebrate,” said President Marcos.

“Nagdiriwang ang sambayanang Pilipino nang may panatag na loob dahil alam naming nariyan kayo—nagbabantay at handang tumugon para sa bayan,” the President stressed. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday countered unfounded claims branding the Philippines as a terrorism training hotspot, noting that security forces have acted decisively to dismantle terrorist networks, secure communities, and protect the country’s hard-earned peace.

Speaking at the 90th Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Anniversary at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, President Marcos rejected the terrorism training label as highly unacceptable, and vowed to continue to strengthen the military’s capability, credibility, and readiness to deter threats and protect peace.

“We also reject in the strongest terms the recent misleading claims that portray our country as a training hotspot for terrorism,” President Marcos said.

“For years, we have acted decisively to dismantle terrorist networks, to secure communities, and to sustain our hard-earned peace. To dismiss these gains with unfounded speculation is not acceptable,” the President emphasized.

“Nevertheless, we remain vigilant. We will not let deceptive narratives distract us nor weaken our resolve,” the President added.

President Marcos also recognized the heroism of the AFP personnel who were awarded during the event, noting they set the gold standard for bravery, innovation, and distinguished service.

“Araw-araw na naglilingkod. Araw-araw na naninindigan. Kaya sa ngalan ng mamamayang Pilipino, maraming salamat sa inyong galing, tapang, at malasakit,” the President said.

The Chief Executive underscored his administration’s commitment to properly compensate and equip AFP personnel, citing his recent approval of Executive Order No. 107 which updated the base pay schedule of all military and uniformed personnel.

The updated base pay will take effect in January 2026, with succeeding adjustments in 2027 and 2028.

“This can be just one of the many ways that we show our gratitude for the service that you have rendered to our country,” President Marcos said.

The AFP was formally established on December 21, 1935 under the National Defense Act during the American Commonwealth era. Its origins, however, date back to the Philippine Revolutionary Army of 1897 and the US-organized Philippine Constabulary in 1901. | PND

On orders of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Piggatan Detour Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan was formally opened on Friday, just 60 days after construction began, enabling uninterrupted traffic and public services for the province.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon led the formal opening of Piggatan Detour Bridge with Alcala Mayor Cristina Ignacio Antonio and Cagayan Governor Edgar Aglipay.

“We will finish this within the year,” Dizon said as they toured the bridge.

The opening follows President Marcos’ directive to expedite the construction of the temporary bridge to prevent disruptions to residents’ livelihoods and public services in the province.

Dizon said the DPWH will implement a 24/7 traffic management scheme on the bridge, which can now accommodate vehicles weighing up to 40 tons starting today.

The Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan collapsed on October 6, 2025, after trucks exceeding the bridge’s 10-ton load limit crossed the structure.

The incident disrupted transport in the region, prompting the DPWH to launch the emergency construction of a detour bridge to ease traffic and facilitate agricultural transport, while the main bridge is slated for rebuilding. | PND

Qualified government employees will receive an early Christmas gift of PhP5,000 following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s approval of the Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI) for Fiscal Year 2025 as recognition for their dedicated service, professionalism, and vital role in public service, Malacañang said on Friday.

“Maagang Pamasko po sa mga kawani ng pamahalaan. Bilang pagkilala at pagpapahalaga sa mahusay na paglilingkod sa bayan, propesyonalismo at sa mahalagang papel na ginagampanan ng mga kawani ng gobyerno, inaprubahan ni Pangulong Marcos ang patuloy na pagbibigay ng PEI para sa mga kawani ng pamahalaan,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing.

Castro said a Department of Budget and Management (DBM) circular confirmed the continued grant of the PEI as recognition of government workers’ commitment to public service and professionalism.

“Ayon kay DBM Acting Secretary Rolly Toledo, makakatanggap ng PhP5,000 ang bawat kuwalipikadong kawani ng pamahalaan,” Castro said.

The PEI covers civilian personnel in national government agencies, state universities and colleges, and government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs) under the DBM. Also eligible are qualified employees of local government units, local water districts, and military and uniformed personnel.

In approving the incentive, President Marcos underscored the importance of recognizing the sacrifices of government workers in delivering public service, stressing that their welfare remains a key pillar of his administration’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda.

“Ang nasabing hakbang ng Pangulo ay pagpapakita lamang ng tuluy-tuloy na suporta ng Marcos administration sa pagpapataas ng productivity at morale ng government employees,” Castro said.

“Naniniwala si Pangulong Marcos Jr. na nararapat lang na bigyan ng importansiya ang mga kawani ng pamahalaan na walang-sawang naglilingkod at nagiging katuwang para maihatid ang pangangailangan ng taumbayan. Dahil sa Bagong Pilipinas, mahalaga ang kapakanan ng mga lingkod-bayan,” Castro added. | PND

The Davao City Coastal Bypass Road Segment B has officially been opened to public traffic, offering faster and safer travel for motorists as part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos’ infrastructure push, Malacañang announced on Friday.

In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Officer Claire Castro said President Marcos ordered the safety of motorists using the bypass road, which reduces travel time from more than an hour to 20-25 minutes.

“Davao City Coastal Bypass Road bukas na sa publiko kaninang ala sais ng umaga. Ito’y matapos ipag-utos ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na tiyakin ang kaligtasan ng mga motoristang gagamit ng nasabing bypass road,” Castro said.

“Talaga namang magandang balita ito sa mga kababayan nating abala sa paghahanda sa darating na pagdiriwang ng Pasko,” she added.

Castro highlighted the expected impact of the Coastal Bypass Road on easing traffic congestion in Davao City, noting that the project is seen to significantly reduce travel time and provide relief to commuters, especially as residents prepare for the upcoming Christmas season.

“Inaasahang makakatulong ang Coastal Bypass Road sa pag-decongest ng mabigat na trapiko mula sa timog na bahagi ng Davao City patungong downtown area. Ang dating isang oras o mas mahabang biyahe ay maaaring abutin na lamang ng 20 to 25 minutes ayon sa estima ng DPWH,” she said.

Castro said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) assured President Marcos that the road is safe for public use, citing completed safety measures and coordination with the local government to ensure the full and effective utilization of the newly opened bypass road.

“Siniguro ng DPWH sa Pangulo na ligtas gamitin ang nasabing kalsada sa tulong ng mga bagong install na karagdagang solar street lights at guardrails. Noong December 15 ay passable na ang Bucana Bridge at dalawang lanes ng Coastal Bypass Road. Maaari itong gamitin mula ala sais ng umaga hanggang alas singko ng hapon,” Castro added.

“Sa kabila ng pagbubukas ng tulay at bahagi ng bypass road, kinailangan pa ang dagdag suporta mula sa lokal na pamahalaan ng Davao upang tuluyang mapakinabangan ito ng ating mga kababayan,” Castro said. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured the public that the proposed PHP6.793 trillion national budget for 2026 would be thoroughly reviewed and signed before the end of the year, Malacañang said on Friday.

The Palace emphasized that the budget measure must align with the administration’s priorities and remain people-centered.

In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said officials from the Executive branch will forego any holiday break to ensure that the proposed General Appropriations Act is thoroughly reviewed and scrutinized.

“Noong una talaga ay inaasahan ng Pangulo na mas maaga ang pagsa-submit ang kopya ng enrolled bill. Sa pagkakataong ito, pipilitin ng Pangulo, pipilitin na maaral mabuti at mapirmahan ang 2026 national budget bago magtapos ang taon,” Castro said.

“Pero ang tinitiyak ng Pangulo ay aralin, matutukan, mabusisi ang nasabing enrolled bill at matiyak na ang mga nakalagay dito ay naaayon sa prayoridad ng administrasyon, isang malinis, makatao, at nakatuon mga probisyon dito para sa taong-bayan,” Castro emphasized.

“Kung hindi magkakaroon ng tulugan, walang tulugan, gagawin po ‘yan. Pero ang gustong sabihin ng Pangulo, ang tinitiyak niya, bago siya pumirma, dapat naaral po itong mabuti, nabusisi, at kung may kailangan i-veto, ibi-veto,” she added.

Castro said the Executive will conduct its own review to ensure the budget’s integrity.

“Kung sinasabi ng Kongreso na napag-aralan ito mabuti, aaralin pa rin ito ng Pangulo at titiyakin ng Pangulo sa publiko na ito ay isang makatao at maayos na national budget,” Castro said.

The Palace Press Officer reiterated that President Marcos remains a strong advocate of openness, citing the President’s Transparency Portal initiative which provides public access to government bidding and procurement processes.

The Congressional Bicameral Conference Committee is scheduled to approve the 2026 national budget on December 28. The proposed General Appropriations Act will be separately ratified by the House of Representatives and the Senate on December 29 before it is submitted to Malacañang. | PND