by Seneca Moraleda-Puguan
Food on our table, a roof over our heads, protection from harm, and provision for every need… these are the things I thank God for every single day.
And as Christmas approaches, these are the very blessings I pray for the Filipino people to experience in full measure… and more.
The year 2025 has been a painful one for our nation.
One disaster after another battered our islands, leaving many families struggling to rebuild what little they had.
But perhaps the most devastating was not the one brought by wind, rain and the ground shaking, it was the revelation of widespread corruption and betrayal in government.
For a people already burdened by hardship, the sting of lost trust has been even harder to bear.
I am writing this from Perth, Australia, where I am spending three months with family.
Each time I witness and experience the benefits of living in a first-world country, efficient systems, reliable public transportation, quality healthcare, and a government that delivers services people can actually feel, I cannot help but wonder:
What if the Philippines could enjoy this too?
What if our taxes are translated into comfort, safety, and opportunities for every Filipino family? What if our government’s promises were not empty words but realities fulfilled?
What if the nation – every sector, every department, every city and municipality – were led by men and women whose integrity was unwavering, whose love for the people guided every decision?
What if the richness of our land were matched by the richness of leadership?
These questions linger in my heart every day, heavy with longing yet still hopeful. How beautiful it would be if our “what ifs” finally turned into reality.
As Christmas comes again- a season that reminds us of hope, justice, and redemption – my wishes are simple but profound:
JUSTICE, so that those who steal from the nation are held accountable, and the wounds of betrayal can begin to heal.
HEALING, for every Filipino who feels abandoned, unheard, or deceived, and for communities picking up the pieces after disaster.
EQUALITY, so opportunities are not reserved for the powerful or the privileged, but are accessible to every child, every worker, every family striving for a dignified life.
A BETTER WAY OF LIFE, where the wealth of our natural resources is matched by good governance and genuine service.
The Filipino spirit has always been resilient, joyful, and hopeful even when tested.
My prayer this Christmas is that joy would not be something we cling to despite our circumstances, but something we can celebrate because our nation is finally moving toward truth, accountability, and genuine progress.
May we all, wherever we are in the world, keep believing and working for the country we dream of – one where hope is not a luxury, but a lived reality.
With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. This is the heart of Christmas – Jesus came so hope could live in us.
For every Filipino, may there be food on your table, a roof over your head, protection from harm, provision for every need…and so much more.
Mahal kong Pilipinas, someday you will find your joy again.
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