By Jose Cielito Reganit

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez (Photo courtesy of Office of the Speaker)

MANILA – Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez is ushering in 2025 with a message of hope and unity as he called on Filipinos to embrace the New Year as an opportunity to build a stronger and more resilient Philippines under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Ang Bagong Taon ay isang simbolo ng bagong simula – isang pagkakataon upang magtulungan muli at magtatag ng mas matibay na kinabukasan para sa ating bayan (The New Year is a symbol of a fresh start – a chance for collective action to create a stronger future for the nation),” Romualdez said in his New Year message.

He noted that while 2024 brought significant achievements, it also brought major challenges to the people, particularly the devastating series of typhoons, floods, and other calamities.

Despite these challenges, the leader of the House of Representatives highlighted the resilience of Filipinos, who exhibited unity and the spirit of bayanihan in overcoming hardships.

“As we step into 2025, let us carry with us the lessons of the past year. Let us remain united in our resolve to rise above challenges, to rebuild what has been lost and to ensure that no Filipino is left behind,” Romualdez said.

Kasabay ng pag-asa sa bagong taon ay ang panibagong tapang at lakas ng loob upang harapin ang mga hamon at pagkakataon ng kinabukasan (Along with the hope that the new year brings comes renewed courage and strength to face future challenges),” he added.

The Speaker reaffirmed the House’s commitment to addressing the nation’s pressing needs through proactive legislation that promotes economic growth, improves public services, and enhances disaster resilience.

He also emphasized the critical role of collaboration between the government and the private sector to ensure that all Filipinos have access to essential services and opportunities for a better future.

Lastly, Romualdez reiterated his full support for the President’s vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas.”

Sama-sama nating itaguyod ang isang Bagong Pilipinas ni Pangulong Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ R. Marcos Jr., isang bansa kung saan ang bawat Pilipino ay may oportunidad, may seguridad at may pag-asa (Together, let us foster a New Philippines under President Marcos, a nation of opportunity, security, and hope for each Filipino),” he said.

“Mabuhay ang Pilipino, at mabuhay ang ating mahal na Pilipinas!”

Resilience, ‘bayanihan’ defined PH in 2024

Office of Civil Defense (OCD) administrator, Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, said “resilience and ‘bayanihan’ spirit” defined the Philippines in 2024.

“The challenges we face from natural hazards are significant, but our strength lies in our unity and commitment to one another,” he said in his New Year’s Message.

Resilience, Nepomuceno said, means not just enduring hardships but rising stronger together. 

“Let’s inspire each other through acts of kindness and collaboration, weaving a fabric of support that strengthens us all,” he added.

Nepomuceno also reiterated that the OCD is dedicated to enhancing its response systems through strategic risk communication, robust early warning systems, impact-based forecasting, and anticipatory actions. 

“Together, we can build a safer, more resilient future. May this New Year bring hope and renewed commitment. Happy New Year! Let us face the challenges ahead with courage and unity,” he added. (with Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)