‘Let’s emulate Virgin Mary’s qualities’

MANILA, Philippines — Despite his tirades against some members of the Catholic Church, President Duterte joined the Catholic community in commemorating the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary yesterday.

Duterte, who has cursed Catholic priests and even called God “stupid,” urged the faithful to “emulate Mary’s qualities.”

“Let us emulate Mary’s qualities as a humble and caring person and remain guided by her faithfulness as we strengthen our devotion and nurture our lives with unconditional love and good deeds that will benefit the Filipino people,” he said.

In a one-page message, Duterte urged Catholics to remember Mary’s selflessness, describing her as an epitome of faith.

“Every year, our thoughts and hearts unite to celebrate the life of Virgin Mary, whose simplicity, kindness and humility we truly adore and admire,” he said.

“Since the advent of Christianity in the Philippines, she has been an epitome of faith and a source of inspiration for our people, especially during times of challenges and uncertainties,” Duterte said.

“May the narrative of her Immaculate Conception be a constant reminder of her selflessness when she accepted the invitation to become the mother of Christ so that the plan of salvation would be realized,” he added.

Duterte wished the Catholic community a “happy and meaningful” commemoration.