Duterte urges Filipinos to honor saints, departed loved ones

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visits the grave of his mother Soledad at the Roman Catholic Cemetery in Davao City on October 31, 2019. JOEY DALUMPINES/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA – President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Friday called on the Filipinos to honor the departed and the saints, as the nation observes All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

In his message, Duterte wished the Filipino faithful a “solemn and meaningful observance” of the annual tradition of remembering departed loved ones.

“I join the entire Filipino Christian community in their solemn observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day,” the President said.

“In these days of remembrance, we honor our dearly departed loved ones by praying for the eternal repose of their souls and cherishing fond memories of the time they spent with us. We also remember the remarkable lives of our saints who continue to guide us in our daily lives,” he added.

The country annually observes All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day every Nov.

1 and 2, respectively.

Nov. 1 and 2 have been declared by the Chief Executive as special non-working days to give the public more time to pay respect to their deceased loved ones.

Duterte expressed hope that Filipinos would be inspired by the deeds and legacy of the departed and the saints.

“May this year’s observance inspire us to strengthen our faith and uphold our traditions as we deepen our bonds as a nation,” Duterte said.

“Let us dedicate our time, skills and knowledge so we may make a positive and meaningful impact on our society while we pursue meaningful goals for our people and country,” he added.

The President visited the grave of his parents at the Roman Catholic Public Cemetery in Davao City on Thursday night since he will go to Thailand on Friday to participate in the 35th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit and Related Summits on Nov. 2 to 4.

Millions of Filipinos are expected to flock to cemeteries across the country on Friday to honor the dead.

Security measures have already been in place to ensure a peaceful and safe commemoration of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, the government assured the public.