phl embassy amb mssg 2021
Buhay OFW

New Year Greetings from H.E. Ambassador Millicent Cruz-Paredes

We are leaving behind a year that was, perhaps, the most challenging in our lifetime, with lasting changes to our way of life as we know it. This week of Christmas and New Year celebrations is not the usual “most wonderful time of the year” that we are accustomed to. Normally, this is the time of the year when we are physically reunited with our families and friends to renew ties and celebrate togetherness in a season full of love and thanksgiving.

The year 2020, however, is nothing but normal and will be remembered by each of us in more ways than one. The year saw so many loss of jobs, property, and sadly even lives.

Yet it also offered the opportunity for us to stop, reflect, and rally behind each other. Even, and especially during this low moment in our lives, we have witnessed God’s providence through the many acts of compassion, benevolence and generosity, particularly among the members of the Filipino community here in Thailand, which truly reflect our sense of humanity and affirm our values as a nation.

The year 2021 offers a new hope, a new beginning. I encourage you to yearn and persevere for a better tomorrow. Let us remain united and continue to draw strength and inspiration from each other, because amid all these challenges, there are kindness to be shared and blessings to be had.

Hangad ko ang isang masagana at malusog na bagong taon para sa ating lahat!