MANILA, Philippines—President Benigno Aquino III will get to rest during the holidays.
On the recommendation of Health Secretary Enrique Ona, the President “will take a break from work starting Dec. 27,” Malacanang announced on Monday.
Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said Mr. Aquino would not be working for the rest of the holidays from then on, but would interrupt his break on Dec. 30 to pay tribute to Jose Rizal on his death anniversary.
It remains to be seen if Mr. Aquino would spend time at the Mansion in Baguio City, the official summer residence of Philippine presidents.
In his Christmas message, the President paid tribute to victims of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” and the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that hit Bohol last October.
“Like the Star of Bethlehem that served as light and inspiration to the three kings, we were also filled with energy and hope because of the strength of our people despite the tragedy that they experienced,” he said in Filpino, recalling his recent visit to Bohol and areas hit by “Yolanda” in Eastern Visayas.
“In Bohol, they were really down because of the calamity, but I saw for myself: truly, they were rising, they were fighting,” he added.
“Perhaps, this is one of the most important lessons coming from our Lord: let’s do everything we can and God the Father will take care of the rest.”
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