We in the Presidential Communications Operations Office wish all Filipinos a safe celebration of the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ!

Although this sacred and joyful occasion is often spent reflecting and celebrating with families, loved ones, and friends, the current situation brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the Omicron variant, calls for us to virtually observe this holiday season or have gatherings at a limited capacity.

May the lessons and morals from Christ’s birth and the humility, compassion, and kindness Christ displayed encourage us to take time to be one with and inspire us to help our fellow Filipinos who are enduring the impacts of Typhoon Odette. Let us impart His love and blessings through the spirit of bayanihan and give to those in need.

Let us continue to observe the minimum health protocols and participate in the government’s COVID-19 vaccination program, for our collective healing and recovery from this global health crisis.

With this, we extend our warmest greetings to all the Filipinos here and around the world as we celebrate Christmas today.

Merry Christmas!

SEC. MARTIN M. ANDANAR

Manila, 24 December 2021