MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joined the Catholic faithful and the entire nation in remembering their dearly departed on November 1.
The president visited the tomb of his father, former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr., at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Friday, ahead of the observance of All Saints’ Day.
The president was accompanied by his mother, former first lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, his sister Irene Marcos-Araneta, and close family and friends.
The family offered prayers and paid their respects during the private visit.
In his message, the president invited Filipinos to extend the same devotion they show in remembering the departed to the way they treat one another, making time to listen to those who struggle and showing concern for their fellow Filipinos.
"As we observe All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, we remember our departed loved ones and the lives and legacies they have left behind," Marcos said.
"Though they are no longer with us, the memories we shared and the values they taught us continue to bring our families closer together," he said.
"May we also draw inspiration from the saints, whose lives of selfless service and devotion remind us to show greater kindness and compassion toward one another," Marcos said.
He asked Filipinos to "honor those who have passed not only through our prayers, but also through the way we care for those who remain."
"May these solemn days bring peace to those who mourn and remind us to cherish the people we hold dear," the president said.
