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| Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto. File photo |
MANILA, Philippines – With a life fulfilled from decades of stardom, a flourishing career in public service, and a strong family, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos has no more to ask from God, saying that at this point in her life, it is time for her to simply give thanks.
Speaking to ABS-CBN News, Santos said she has received overflowing blessings from God, and now intends to give thanks by restoring places of worship in her home province.
“Kung may natitira pa pong bagay na gusto kong hilingin sa Panginoon, dalawang bagay lang – gabayan ang pamilya ko, at gabayan ang pagiging ina ko ng lalawigan ng Batangas,” she said.
“Sobra-sobra na ang biyaya na binigay ng Panginoon, wala na akong hihilingin pa. Pasasalamat nalang, pasasalamat.”
As her way of thanking God, Santos has committed herself to restoring a the San Martin de Tours Minor Basilica in Taal, Batangas.
“’Yung pagre-restore nito ay kahit paano personal na namin ‘yun,” she said. “Hindi pwedeng gumamit ng pondo ng gobyerno diyan, so kung anuman ‘yung, a little part of us ni Senador Ralph Recto (her husband) na naitutulong sa pagpapa-ayos ng simbahan, ‘yun ay more of personal na naming support kasi mga Katoliko din kami.”
As Catholics, Santos will observe Holy Week traditions with her family, saying the Lenten break is time for togetherness and praying.
“Perfect time na magkakasama ang pamilya. Tuwing Holy Week, ‘yun ‘yung ginagawa namin, family reunion and togetherness,” she said. “But of course you know very well kailangan magbigay ng dasal sa Panginoon, linggo niya ito eh.”
“Manalangin lang tayo, but that doesn't mean bawal naman mag-enjoy, kasi ito ‘yung time ng togetherness, pero ‘wag natin kalimutan, alalahanin naman natin ‘yung Panginoon.”