Marcos urges Pinoys to move with purposeful haste

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos Tuesday to harness the Fire Horse's courage with discipline, hard work and ''purposeful haste.'' 

In his message for the Chinese New Year, Marcos said, ''I invite all Filipinos to move with purposeful haste – swift when necessary; measured when it matters most. Momentum can be energizing, but direction is what truly delivers results.'' 

“Let us protect what is essential such as fair opportunity and reliable public services, while enhancing productivity, stronger value chains, and communities that never leave the vulnerable behind," he added.

Marcos underscored that the celebration is an opportunity for renewal and purposeful action for Filipinos, adding that it is a moment to align personal, community, and national efforts toward growth and prosperity.

''Across generations, we have come to see prosperity as something we cultivate: built by everyday work, guided by discipline, and multiplied when it creates jobs and supports initiatives that hold our people together," Marcos said.

Marcos said that while the Horse and Fire evoke energy and boldness, real progress depends on prudent households, productive industries, and reliable public service working together in order to build a more prosperous and empowered ''Bagong Pilipinas.''

“The Horse is often read as a sign of movement, courage, and forward motion, while the Fire element suggests a spark that refuses to settle for the usual pace,” Marcos said.

He said these symbols convey great meaning for many among us, however, Marcos said the nation does not advance on symbolism alone. 

''It progresses when Filipinos show up for work, when households make every peso count with prudence and good judgment, and when government and industries keep the country growing through consistent service, sound decisions, and the rigor that turns daily effort into long-term growth,” Marcos said. 

Marcos had declared February 17 of this year as a special non-working holiday. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA Integrated News