Duterte highlights importance of forgiveness, respect in Christmas message

Metro Manila, Philippines - Vice President Sara Duterte has talked about forgiveness, love, and respect this holiday season in her Christmas message released on Tuesday, Dec. 24.

“Ang kapanganakan ni Hesus ay isang mensahe ng kapatawaran na sumasailalim sa walang kapantay na pag-ibig ng Diyos sa lahat. Gamitin natin ang kaniyang halimbawa bilang inspirasyon sa ating pakikipag-kapwa, lalo’t higit sa ating pamilya at mga minamahal sa buhay,” she said.

[Translation: The birth of Jesus is a message of forgiveness that reflects God's unparalleled love for all. Let us use His example as inspiration in our relationships with others, especially with our family and loved ones]

The vice president earlier echoed the same message in a thanksgiving event, but noted she herself won’t forgive others. Duterte cut ties with the Marcos administration this year, even saying that she and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. were not friends.

Duterte, meanwhile, urged Filipinos to show understanding and respect to one another, especially to the poor and sick.

“Ito ang tunay na diwa ng panahong ito, at ito ay isang paalaala sa ating lahat, hindi lamang ngayong buwan ng Disyembre, kundi sa lahat ng araw,” she said.

[Translation: This is the true spirit of this season, and it serves as a reminder to all of us, not just this month of December, but every day]