President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. kicked off the holiday season with a festive gift-giving program at Malacañang Palace on Sunday, spreading joy to Filipino children.
The event, part of the nationwide initiative “Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya Gift Giving Day,” provided gifts to an estimated 30,000 children aged 4 to 12 across the country.
The gift set, thoughtfully curated for kids, included:
- A trolley bag
- A pillow
- Socks
- A raincoat
- A tumbler
- A watch
- Face and hand towels
Marcos was joined by First Lady Lisa Araneta-Marcos and their sons, Simon and Vincent, as they personally handed out gift bags to children present in Malacañang.
A Tradition of Cheer
In his speech, President Marcos reminisced about his family’s tradition of hosting children during the holidays.
“Christmas is indeed for the children. I know and I’ve felt the Christmas spirit because the children are here again singing Christmas carols.”
He shared how the Marcos family has long celebrated Christmas by welcoming children to the Palace:
“When I was young and still lived here, as long as it was Christmas, we prepared something for the children.”
Collaborative Efforts for Holiday Joy
The program was organized in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), local government units in Metro Manila, and orphanages supported by the “Tulong sa Palasyo” initiative.
Marcos emphasized the importance of bringing the Christmas spirit to communities, especially those recently affected by natural disasters.
“I hope we all have a Merry Christmas because we’ve been given the chance to be with our loved ones, celebrate, and enjoy some lechon and ham. That’s Christmas for Filipinos.”
The event reflects the administration’s efforts to spread goodwill and strengthen the traditional Filipino celebration of Christmas.