President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. encouraged Filipino Catholics to embody the values of compassion and humility, inspired by the Blessed Virgin Mary, as the nation marked the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on Saturday.
Marcos highlighted the importance of faith and religion in fostering a sense of community and stability, which he said plays a vital role in the spiritual, mental, and emotional well-being of Filipinos.
“As we celebrate this holy feast, I encourage my fellow Catholics and Filipinos to emulate Mary by serving others with compassion and humility, especially as we strive to build the Bagong Pilipinas we desire for our people,” Marcos said in a statement issued by Malacañang.
He also emphasized the significance of the holy day, which honors the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Jesus Christ’s life and God’s plan for humanity’s redemption.
“This feast invites an opportunity for all people of faith to reflect on themes of grace, purity, and devotion,” Marcos added.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, observed on December 8, commemorates the conception of Mary in the womb of her mother, St. Anne, as explained by the Society of Jesus through Ateneo de Manila University. This event is celebrated nine months before Mary’s birthday on September 8.
