“May nagawa ka, nagbago yung buhay ng tao. Can you imagine? Binago mo yung buhay ng tao. What a privilege to be able to do that.”
Thus declared President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who reminded aspiring public servants that genuine service to the people is the only “one right reason” to enter politics, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of public service.
President Marcos said that improving the lives of others and uplifting communities is the greatest reward of public service.
In the latest BBM Podcast which aired on Thursday, the President was asked by a college student the one thing he wished he had known before entering public service.
“I think you are well guided so long as you enter politics for the right reason. And there’s only one right reason: to serve,” said President Marcos.
“There’s no other correct reason. It’s a thankless job, that’s for sure. But it’s worth it. You know, it’s worth it,” President Marcos added.
Reflecting on what makes public service meaningful, the President emphasized that the true reward lies not in recognition or position but in the impact one has on others’ lives.
The Chief Executive said the greatest fulfillment comes from seeing real change—change that one personally helped bring about—whether for an individual, a community, or the nation.
“You know, when you see something change for the good that you made it, you made it happen, that changes your world. There’s nothing better. There’s nothing better than to help somebody outside of yourself. Outside yourself, outside your family, your community, your country,” the President said.
“I’m happy to be here because you’re given again the privilege to help, to do something, to help people’s lives. That’s the biggest privilege that anyone can give
you. If you’re in public service, that’s the most, that’s a golden,” the President added.
When asked what he wanted to have this Christmas that is hard to achieve even in his position, President Marcos said he wished for a good 2026 national budget.
“I don’t know how specific you want to get, but that for Christmas that the legislature will provide us a good budget. That will make for a very nice Christmas,” the President said. | PND
