Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Thursday expressed hope that the Lenten season would inspire Filipinos to live with “love, hope, and compassion,” especially now that the country is still grappling with the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covod-19) pandemic.
Andanar gave the message, as he joined the Catholic community in commemorating the religious occasion.
“May the Lenten period be a time of reflection and may its essence guide us to act with love, hope, and compassion towards others as we collectively endure the present challenges,” he said in his message for Lent.
Andanar said the Lent period is a reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for the salvation of all.
He was optimistic that Filipinos would renew their faith and find peace despite the challenges they are currently facing due to Covid-19 pandemic.
“May it further inspire us to persevere with faith and peace in our hearts, and to help bring significant changes in our society, especially as we continue recovering from this pandemic,” Andanar said.
This year’s observance of Holy Week falls from March 28 (Palm Sunday) to April 4 (Easter Sunday).
Christians celebrate Easter Sunday which marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, three days after he was crucified and died on the cross on Cavalry.
This is the second time the country observes Holy Week with restricted movement because of the threat posed by Covid-19.
Metro Manila and the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal have been placed under the most restrictive enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) from March 29 to April 4 in an effort to stop the alarming rise in Covid-19 cases.
Andanar, who recently contracted Covid-19, urged the public to continue observing the health and safety protocols to protect themselves against Covid-19.
“We also ask those in the areas that have been placed under ECQ to stay at home as religious gatherings have been prohibited and to adhere to the 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew hours. We wish everyone a safe observance of Holy Week,” he said. (PNA)