MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Leni Robredo remains positive for the coming new year despite acknowledging challenges facing the nation such as a growing culture of hate and impunity. For 2018, Robredo asked the Filipino people to continue praying that the "light of love and hope continue to live on in the hearts of every one." In a video message in Filipino, Robredo said that there are, and will be, more challenges in the future such as "the spread of negativism and hate, as well as the culture of fear and violence in society." Critics of Rodrigo Duterte's administration have said the president and his supporters have helped bring about a culture of anger and impunity among Filipinos. Duterte and Robredo have often been at odds, with the vice president even being advised to abstain from attending Cabinet meetings.

Source: Philippine Star December 31, 2017 09:56 UTC