Marcos calls for discipline, unity as Filipinos welcome 2026

MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to welcome 2026 with discipline, confidence, and a shared sense of purpose, urging unity as the country grapples with political divide and public outrage over a massive flood control corruption scandal.

In his New Year’s Day message, Marcos described the beginning of another year as a moment for reflection and renewal, urging citizens to learn from the past while moving forward.

The year 2025 was marked by exposés uncovering allegations of corruption in flood control projects. There have been leadership shakeups in Congress and Marcos’ cabinet, with some implicated in the corruption scheme.

The Philippines also saw Filipinos unite — protesting in the streets — to condemn corruption, but it also experienced internal factions and divisions.

“As we step into the days ahead, may we move forward with a clearer understanding of our role in each other’s lives and a renewed commitment to building a future shaped by the strength of our will and the clarity of our collective purpose,” Marcos said.

The President reiterated his administration’s push for “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines), emphasizing unity, compassion, and empathy as essential pillars of nation-building.

“A society thrives when its people choose empathy over indifference, service over self-interest, and hope over despair,” Marcos said. 

Marcos ended 2025 with a 34% approval rating and 47% distrust rating, while his political ally-turned-nemesis Vice President Sara Duterte secured a 56% approval rating. A recent Social Weather Stations survey showed that 44% of Filipinos are optimistic about improvements in their lives in 2026. – Rappler.com