President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reminded Filipinos to prioritize their health and safety during the holiday season while playfully answering questions from netizens in a vlog.
In a vlog posted on his official Facebook page on Monday, President Marcos warned Filipinos against overeating at Christmas gatherings, citing rising heart attack cases linked to fatty foods. “As for food, just eat what is right. You know that heart attack cases are high these days because we eat more fat,” he said.
He also advised motorists to drive safely to their destinations and encouraged using toy trumpets or torotot instead of fireworks to ring in the New Year. The Department of Health records hundreds of injuries nationwide each year from fireworks during the holidays.
Marcos fielded questions from netizens on Christmas traditions. On regifting, he urged appreciating every present as it comes from the heart, though it could be passed to someone in greater need. “Of course, when you receive something, you smile and say, ‘Thank you.’ Remember this, no matter what was given to you, even if you already have it, it came from the heart of the giver. That is what we should remember. But it shouldn’t be wasted. We can pass it on to someone else who will benefit from that beautiful gift,” he explained.
Regarding how much leche flan to eat, he joked that Christmas allows indulgence without strict limits, while reminding hosts to prepare plenty. For relatives commenting on weight gain, he suggested a light-hearted retort. On gifts for godchildren, he noted they keep a full list and recommended e-wallets for those hard to meet in person. For potlucks, he suggested spaghetti as easy and abundant.
In closing, Marcos wished everyone a happy and peaceful holiday with family and friends.