Marcos: Let ‘Undas’ remind Filipinos of the values ​​of faith, resilience and hope

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joined the nation in celebrating All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, saying he hoped it would remind Filipinos of the values ​​of faith, resilience and hope.

In his message, Marcos expressed hope that by observing “Undas,” the traditional annual visit by Filipinos to the graves of their loved ones on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, Filipinos will become better people and stewards of the nation.

“I join all Filipino Catholics in the Philippines and around the world in celebrating All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day,” Marcos said.

“Let this remind us of the values ​​we will endure as a nation: faith, resilience and hope,” the president said.

Marcos also expressed hope that the two-day celebration could remind Filipinos of those who, through their example of faith and love for others, paved the way for the country’s current prosperity.

“This is a time of reflection as we remember deceased believers who led lives of honor, sacrifice and service,” Marcos said.

“This is the right moment to strengthen our connection to improve our spiritual lives, not only with the divine, but also with each other. This reminds us of the pursuit of those virtues that distinguished the saints with their extraordinary compassion, kindness and humility,” he added.

The President encouraged everyone to spend this time with their families and loved ones, visit the resting places of departed loved ones, offer heartfelt prayers for them and express deep gratitude for their influence on their lives.

“As we reflect on our path in this world, let us strive to live with love and compassion for others, always seeking the common good, as the saints and our loved ones did in their time,” he said.

Marcos declared November 1 and 2 as special non-working holidays so that Filipinos could observe the Christian holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

The President also suspended work at government offices and educational institutions at all levels on October 31 to allow staff to travel to and from the provinces to monitor Undas.

Marcos, along with the rest of his family, is scheduled to attend a mass on Friday at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani in honor of his father, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.