PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Monday joined the Catholic faithful in the observance of the feast of the Black Nazarene.
In his message, Duterte said his administration "has deep empathy for the core of faith that pushes the masses of Filipinos to resort to sacrifice every single day, while still finding a piece of themselves to honor God."
"We are neither exhausted by praying constantly nor do we ever falter in expressing our religious fervor. Despite the passage of time, we relentlessly fight against injustice and lies; abuse of power; and the corruption that eats up the soul," the chief executive said.
The President also acknowledged that God's image was recognized in the man of Nazarene, who "carried his cross to redeem the rest of humankind."
He also appreciated the faith of millions of devotees in the form of "gratitude, petition, and sacrifice" shown in the image of the Black Nazarene every feast day celebrated annually.
"In His tears, we see our sorrow; and in His agony, we find our solace and strength to triumph against the most insurmountable odds," Duterte said.
"Good fortunes are usually borne out of hard work and perseverance. Prayers are likely answered because we do not give up or get tired from asking God for the fulfillment of our heart's desires," he added. (Sunnex)