By Joel Sy Egco /Manila Times
Inspired by the strength displayed by victims of recent disasters, President Benigno Aquino anchored his Christmas message on the unique ability of Filipinos to rise from the ashes and other challenges.
The president’s message also encourages the people not to lose hope and to share the love of Christ especially to those who have suffered from tragedies.
“Like the star of Bethlehem that served as the guiding light and inspiration to the three kings, we were filled with hope by the strength of our countrymen in the face of the tragedies that they had to endure,” Aquino said.
He particularly cited the victims of the killer quake in Bohol province and those ravaged by super typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in central Visayas who, he said, showed their firm resolve to recover quickly.
“In Bohol… I saw it for myself. They really stand up on their own and fight,” Aquino said.