President Marcos enjoined Filipinos to embody the spirit of solidarity and contribute to development as he joined the nation in welcoming the new year.
Every new beginning is a time for reflection on past accomplishments, to move forward with the lessons learned, and to reinforce the unity forged as a people, the President said.
“As a nation, we bid farewell to the challenges and triumphs of the past year and embrace a new dawn of opportunity and hope that heralds another fresh start for all,” he said in a message released Sunday.
“As we welcome 2024 with great optimism, I call upon every Filipino from every corner of the world to contribute to the future of our beloved motherland. Let us embody the spirit of solidarity through acts of kindness, volunteerism, and compassion, knowing that each of us is a catalyst for our country’s meaningful social transformation.”
President Marcos also committed to “strengthen bonds and chart a new roadmap for tomorrow.”
“Let the dream of a revitalized Philippines —a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines)—guide our every endeavor as we bring forth peace, progress, and prosperity for all,” Marcos said.
VP: Honest service
Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday committed to continue doing “honest service” in the incoming year.
In her New Year’s message, Duterte said she wants to welcome 2024 with a positive and progressive outlook for a better future.
“2023 was a colorful year for our country and the whole world. There were many stories of success, hallenges, and hope, but we remained strong and steadfast as Filipinos,” she said in Filipino.
“That’s why our vision for the future remains clear—-that we will continue to deliver honest service. We will continue to fuel our desire for the peace and comfort of every Filipino family. We will never surrender to any trial that comes our way.”
Speaker: Remarkable achievements
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez pointed to the achievements of Congress as the nation heads into the new year.
“The achievements we have realized together are indeed remarkable. The commitment and hard work of each of you, as members of our community, have been pivotal in the passage of critical bills, measures, and resolutions addressing the varied needs of our nation. From economic reforms to social initiatives, these efforts have been about improving the lives of every Filipino,” he added.
“I wish every Filipino a Happy New Year. May this year bring us closer to realizing our national aspirations. Let’s continue to uphold the spirit of unity and service in the days to come,” he said.
Chief Justice: Renewed hope
Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo said that the Supreme Court will welcome 2024 humbled and with renewed hope.
Gesmundo noted that while New Year celebrations are usually associated with second chances, it is in fact about continuity.
“We build on the past, learn from mistakes, and live with the consequences of past actions. For the past cannot be erased; it is part of who we are: the good and the bad, the right and the wrong, the successes and the failures,” the Chief Justice said.
He further likened the transition of one year to the next to a “chapter in a voluminous book” that is still being written.
“In this new chapter we embrace change, take on new challenges, and welcome growth,” Gesmundo said.
He added that 2024 marks the third year of the judiciary’s technology-driven reforms as part of its Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI), which he said was a success.