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President Ferdinand “Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (Photo courtesy of PCO)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, February 17 called on Filipinos to embody the courage and forward motion symbolized by the Year of the Fire Horse, urging them to act with discipline, hard work and “purposeful haste.”
In his Chinese New Year message, Marcos emphasized the importance of direction and resolve in pursuing national progress.
“I invite all Filipinos to move with purposeful haste – swift when necessary; measured when it matters most. Momentum can be energizing, but direction is what truly delivers results,” Marcos said.
“Let us protect what is essential such as fair opportunity and reliable public services, while enhancing productivity, stronger value chains, and communities that never leave the vulnerable behind,” he added.
The President described the celebration as a moment for renewal and deliberate action, encouraging Filipinos to align personal, community and national efforts toward sustained growth.
“Across generations, we have come to see prosperity as something we cultivate: built by everyday work, guided by discipline, and multiplied when it creates jobs and supports initiatives that hold our people together,” Marcos said.
While acknowledging the energy and boldness associated with the Horse and Fire in the Chinese zodiac, Marcos stressed that meaningful development depends on collective effort.
“The Horse is often read as a sign of movement, courage, and forward motion, while the Fire element suggests a spark that refuses to settle for the usual pace,” Marcos said.
He noted that while these symbols carry significance, progress requires more than inspiration alone.
“It progresses when Filipinos show up for work, when households make every peso count with prudence and good judgment, and when government and industries keep the country growing through consistent service, sound decisions, and the rigor that turns daily effort into long-term growth,” Marcos said.
The President earlier declared Feb. 17 a special non-working holiday in celebration of the Chinese New Year.