Marcos urges Filipinos to choose empathy over indifference for the New YearMANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called upon Filipinos to remain committed to the country’s progress, saying that choosing empathy over indifference was integral to moving forward. With the coming of the New Year, Marcos said it was a moment for reflection and renewal. The president did not address the past year’s controversies, instead focusing on the year ahead. “As we step into 2026, I therefore call on every Filipino to embrace the year with discipline, confidence, and a shared commitment to our nation's progress,” Marcos said. A society thrives when its people choose empathy over indifference, service over self-interest, and hope over despair,” he added.

Source: Philippine Star January 01, 2026 03:35 UTC