Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the economic fallout from the Middle East conflict is a major challenge affecting Filipinos, urging compassion and unity as the nation grapples with the high cost of living.
Speaking during the 84th anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) in Bataan on Thursday, April 9, Marcos said while different from the past, current challenges still test the nation’s resilience.
“Today’s challenges may not mirror those of yesterday, but they test us in much the same way. Among these is the enduring geopolitical tension that we are observing in the Middle East,” he said.
The president said that while the country is geographically distant from the conflict, the contagion crosses boundaries.
“While we may stand far from the centers of conflict, we are not untouched by its consequences. Fuel prices weigh heavily on Filipino families, those who already have the least have been subjected the most to this scourge,” he added.
Marcos reaffirmed the government’s commitment to cushion the impact of the crisis, saying authorities are taking steps to protect the welfare of the people.
“In moments like these, the government will do everything that is possible to cushion the impact and safeguard the welfare of our people,” he said.
He said addressing the challenges goes beyond government action, calling on the public to embody compassion and solidarity.
“Sa panahon ng matitinding pagsubok, tulad ng nangyayari ngayon, kailangan nating balikan ang isang mahalagang bahagi ng katangian ng bilang Pilipino – ang pakikipagkapwa,” he said.
[Translation: In times of great trials like what we are experiencing now, we must return to an important Filipino value — compassion for others.]
“Dapat nating kilalanin na ang bawat isa ay may parehong pangangailangan, may parehong pangarap, at may parehong pinagdaraanan,” he added.
[Translation: We must recognize that each of us has the same needs, the same dreams, and the same struggles.]
The president said that strengthening compassion and unity would help build trust and cooperation as the country navigates global uncertainties.
“Sa ganitong paraan, mapapalalim natin ang ating tiwala sa pamahalaan, ang ating malasakit sa kapwa, at ang ating pagmamahal sa ating bayan,” he said.
[Translation: In this manner, we deepen our trust in government, our concern for others, and our love for our country.]
