Christmas Message of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

I am optimistic and hopeful as the year ends and a New Year begins. This Christmas holiday season finds the Philippines stable, strong and peaceful. Our economy is strong, the stock market booming and investments pouring in.

And when so many people all over the world are coming together with family, I want to recognize the 8 million Filipinos who work abroad, many of whom cannot make it home for the holiday. I wish to tell them how much they are missed by their friends and family here at home. And I also want to thank the many host countries for taking care of our hardworking and dedicated Philippine workers.

And finally, I call on every nation to join hands around the world and pray for peace and help the poor. There is no greater calling than to live in peace and free from fear of hunger and want.

Happy Holidays to one and all and as we say in the Philippines, Mabuhay!