PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is hopeful that the celebration of Easter Sunday would give Filipino Christians around the world a chance for “renewal and recovery”.

“May this day be an opportunity for us to pause and give thanks for the opportunity for renewal and recovery as we push through our quest for genuine unity and progress for all,” Marcos said in his Easter Sunday message.

“Indeed, Easter teaches us that as long as we live our life in Christ, love and hope will remain ever so boundless and will be the cornerstones for the positive transformation of our society,” he said.

Marcos said the resurrection of Jesus Christ not only affirms Filipino Christians’ deepest faith “but also signifies a new birth for all the faithful to walk in the new way of life and be granted eternal salvation.”

“Indeed, His selfless and unconditional love empowered us to conquer both sin and death, allowing us to deepen our relationship with God and become worthy Christians in this earthly journey,” he added.

He said the triumph of the resurrection of Jesus Christ inspires Filipino Christians to be “stewards of faith and compassion no matter the circumstances.”

Marcos likewise enjoined Filipino Christians to look forward to “better days.”

“As we celebrate the magnificent glory of our risen Savior, let us all take into heart this Christian foundation as we work for and welcome better days for ourselves, our families, and our neighbors as well,” he said. “I wish everyone a meaningful and solemn observance.”

In an interview with reporters last month, Marcos said he will go on a retreat during the Holy Week and he will spend Easter Sunday with his family.

In a separate message, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman expressed hope that the Easter celebration would not only remind Filipinos to hold on to the Lord’s promise of everlasting life but also inspire everyone to follow His example to love and serve one another.

“May we always remember that no matter who we are, no matter which part of the globe we are in, despite our differences in beliefs, religion or leaning, God is always with us. In suffering and celebration, He never leaves us. He is our hope and our salvation,” Pangandaman, who belongs to the Muslim community, said.

“May we use this time of renewal as an opportunity to recommit ourselves to showing God’s love and mercy by praying and extending our hands to the least of our brothers and sisters,” she added.

Pangandaman is the first Muslim DBM secretary and the only Muslim in the Marcos Cabinet. Philippine News Agency