In Christmas message, Duterte asks Filipinos to inspire with kindness

President Rodrigo Duterte called on Filipinos to help those in need as the Christian world prepared for the celebration of Jesus’ birth.

In his Christmas message, Duterte asked everyone to follow Jesus’ example of empathy and kindness by “opening our hearts and extending our hands” to the less fortunate and “sharing with them the bounty and blessings we have received in the past year.”

“I call on every Filipino across the globe to be an inspiration to others through our small acts of benevolence,” Duterte said.

He also urged Filipinos to deepen relationships, rejoice in Jesus’ compassion and “celebrate our shared humanity as we steer our nation towards a brighter tomorrow.”

Duterte was expected to celebrate Christmas with his family in his hometown Davao City.

“This season is a perfect time, not only to partake in our traditions, but also to reflect on the importance of family as the center of our celebration,” he said.  —NB, GMA News