ROXAS TO FILIPINOS: KEEP YOUR FAITH

The Filipino people should remain optimistic of better days for the country regardless of widespread poverty and unbridled corruption in government, Liberal President Senator Mar Roxas today said as he wished the nation a reflective and meaningful Christmas.

"This holiday season, I celebrate with you the birth of Christ our Saviour. We as a nation celebrate Christmas as we hold on to a promise of change; of restoration of the rule of the good; of renewal of our social contract to care for each other," he said.

"I stand together with the Filipino people who seek the fulfillment of this promise. In a nation ravaged by the selfishness and greed of a few, we celebrate as a people: poor in wealth and power but rich in hope," he also said.

He urged the Filipino people not to lose faith but rather, remain hopeful the government would remedy its blunders and instigate extensive reforms badly needed to spur confidence among the people.

"Christmas has always stood for the restoration of the Lord's covenant with his people: this contract that says 'Do good, and you shall be rewarded. Fall in line, and you shall move forward," he said.

"May we all follow our own stars, as the three Magi did, steadfast in their faith in the Lord and in our ultimate salvation. May this Christmas be meaningful for all of us," he added.