VP Sara calls on Filipinos to welcome 2026 with hope, courage

Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday called on Filipinos to usher in the new year with renewed hope and courage.

“Isang masigla at mainit na pagbati ng Bagong Taon ang ipinapaabot ko sa bawat Pilipino sa buong mundo! Sa pagsalubong natin sa 2026, iwaksi na natin ang anumang pag-aalinlangan at takot,” Duterte said in a video statement.

(A joyful New Year to every Filipino in the whole world. Let us welcome 2026 without fears and uncertainties.)

“Ngayon ang simula ng isang panibagong kabanata, isang malinis na pahina na punung-puno ng pag-asa. Hayaan nating mag-alab muli ang ating tapang at determinasyon,” Duterte added.

(This is a start of a new chapter, a clean slate filled with hope. Let us enkindle our courage and determination.)

While challenges may arise, Duterte said Filipinos have the grit to overcome them.

“Sa bawat pagsubok, lalabas tayong mas matatag,” Duterte said.

(In every challenge, we will emerge stronger.)

Finally, the vice president said the new year is a new chance to embrace unity.

“Ang ating pinagsamang lakas at pananampalataya ang susi ng tunay na pagbabago. Sama-sama tayong magsikap at magdasal na ang 2026 ay maging taon ng pag-asa at pagpapala,” she said.

(Our combined strength and faith is the key to real change. Let us work and pray together for a 2026 full of hope and blessings.) —KG, GMA Integrated News