President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday called upon the Filipino faithful to observe the Feast of the Immaculate Conception by emulating the Virgin Mary’s steadfast devotion to serving with compassion and integrity.
In his message, Marcos emphasized that December 8 is a significant date as it honors the Blessed Virgin Mary’s pivotal role in the life of Jesus Christ and in the divine plan for humanity’s redemption.
“As we commemorate this sacred feast, I encourage my fellow Catholics and compatriots to imitate Mary by serving others with compassion and humility, particularly as we strive to construct the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ that our people seek,” Marcos stated.
“Let us embark upon and embrace the journey toward holiness, remaining united through the shared aspiration to lead lives filled with integrity, devotion, and love. I pray that this day imbues meaning for all,” he added.
Marcos underscored the significance of the feast among Catholics, noting that it presents an opportunity for individuals of faith to reflect on themes of grace, purity, and devotion.
In light of the ongoing global changes, the President asserted that religion and faith continue to cultivate a sense of community and belonging, which serves a central role in assisting individuals in navigating life’s complexities.
“It provides stability, purpose, and hope, which contribute to the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of every Filipino,” Marcos remarked.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a celebration observed by the Catholic community, signifying Mary’s conception without sin.
Although this feast day takes place within the liturgical season of Advent—preparing for the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ—the Immaculate Conception specifically refers to Mary’s conception in the womb of her mother, St. Anne.
The observance of this feast was initiated by a Papal encyclical from Pope Pius IX, who formally defined the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, Ineffabilis Deus, on December 8, 1854.
Under Republic Act 10966, December 8 is designated as a special non-working holiday in commemoration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, recognized as the Principal Patroness of the Philippines.
This holiday is retained on December 8, even if the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception coincides with the second Sunday of Advent, which may prompt the Church to reschedule the celebration to December 9.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines and the Archdiocese of Manila have also affirmed that both December 8 and 9 are holy days of obligation.
A feast day, even if transferred to the closest alternative date, remains a day of obligation, according to the Vatican’s Holy See’s Dicastery on Legislative Texts.