MANILA, Philippines – Follow the example of Jesus: be willing to make sacrifices to help the country pave a straight and narrow path or “tuwid na daan.”

This was President Benigno Aquino III’s message to Filipinos, as Catholics that make up most of the population entered the most crucial part of the Lenten season, the triduum before Easter Sunday.

On Wednesday, April 16, Aquino reminded Filipinos to reflect on the “supreme sacrifice” of Jesus Christ, “offering his life to save mankind.”

He then encouraged Filipinos, as Christians, to make sacrifices for the greater good of the nation.

“May the love shown by Jesus Christ serve as inspiration to us. This was the purpose of His disciples in continuing His good work. This is our guide today as Christians to face our own challenges and to become examples to Christians of tomorrow,” he said.

Making references to his administration’s slogan, he added: “In walking the straight and narrow path (tuwid na daan), we face challenges. The message to us: as His followers, we must be readiy to accept our own sacrifices. It’s certain after all that all our sacrifices will have a positive effect for the greater good. And isn’t it, what is being asked of us is so small compared to what Jesus Christ gave us?”

The President closed his message with a reminder that Filipino should not only observe “humility, compassion, and doing what’s just” during the Lenten season, but make these their way of life.

Watch the video of Aquino’s Lenten message here:

Aquino told reporters on Wednesday he would celebrate the last days of Holy Week with his family. He said he would perform the traditional Visita Iglesia with his relatives on Maundy Thursday, and meet with them again for Easter Sunday.

Malacañang also said Aquino would consistently monitor transportation hubs throughout the week, with Holy Week among the busiest days of the year for passengers. The President plans to stay in Manila during the long weekend. – Rappler.com