President Duterte has encouraged everyone to embody the compassion that Christ has personified in his Lenten message before he embarked on a week-long state visit to three countries in the Middle East during the Holy Week.
Duterte said that Lent is an occasion to reflect on the death of Jesus Christ at Calvary. “This sacrifice marks the ultimate demonstration of love in laying down one’s life for the salvation of mankind,” Duterte said in his message released on Holy Monday.
According to Duterte, the life of Jesus Christ is a testament to the power of “selfless service and humility in the face of various trials.”
He also wished that the virtues of kindness and benevolence that Christ exemplified serve as the Filipinos’ inspiration to aid in the plight of the less fortunate.
“Amidst uncertainties and difficulties, the Way of the Cross is our firm assurance that fondness and truth will always prevail,” he said.
“Let the story of crucifixion challenge us to remain persevering in our struggle for a better life and a stronger society,” he added.
Duterte also said that the season of Lent serves as a moment of the renewal of one’s faith and sends a message of solidarity to everyone regardless of denomination. “I wish you a meaningful and purposeful Holy Week,” he said. (Argyll Cyrus B. Geducos)
