Employees of the Office of the President (OP) will each receive P60,000 Christmas bonus from President Duterte in appreciation of their hard work and professionalism.
The big holiday bonus for the Palace employees was announced during the lighting of the Christmas tree by President Duterte outside the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañang.
“Let me to take the opportunity to thank you for the employees of the Office of the President for demonstrating unwavering commitment and the highest standards of professionalism in public service,” the President said in his remarks.
“With your genuine desire to serve our country, this administration was able to fulfill its promise to the Filipino people. Your dedication towards the work that you do is truly inspiring,” he added.
Upon the President’s instruction, Palace Social Secretary Annalyn Tolentino announced that each OP employee will receive P50,000 holiday bonus and an additional P10,000 during the Palace event.
The OP staff gathered for the tree-lighting event erupted in loud applause upon hearing their Christmas bonus.
Last year, the President gave a P50,000 holiday bonus to each OP employee to spread some holiday cheer.
With the lighting of the Christmas tree, the President said he hopes that people will serve as a light to the less fortunate.
“As we light up the Christmas tree in these historic grounds of Malacanang, it is my ardent hope that it will serve as a reminder for everyone to continue lighting up the lives of others especially those who are suffering from poverty and injustice,” he said.
“I also hope that you’ll sincerely feel the warmth, abundance and happiness that this blessed season brings as you enjoy the many festivities ahead, not just in our office but with your families as well,” he told the OP staff.
Duterte said he expects the OP employees to continue to bring better public service in the coming year.
“I look forward to your continuing dedication as my partners in ensuring that our people are able to enjoy the services of an efficient, responsive and progressive government in the year to come,” he said.
“Together let us continue to secure a better and brighter tomorrow for each Filipino so we can achieve our shared vision for a more united and prosperous nation,” he added.
Also present at the Palace event were Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, and Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo. (Genalyn D. Kabiling)
