Rizal Hall, Malacañan Palace
11 January 2013 

President Benigno S. Aquino III, together with Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario, led the exchange of toast for lasting stability and peace among nations during the New Year Vin D’Honneur celebration in Malacañang.

In his statement during the toast, President Aquino said that 2012 was a good year for the Filipino people because of the economic growth that surpass expectations, the signing of a peace deal and the restoration of public confidence in the judiciary.

He added that there are plenty of reasons to greet 2013 with optimism though many challenges confront the nation.

“With the Filipino people on our side, and with the support of our partners overseas, we can make greater sides,” he said.

The President also expressed his gratitude to the international community who have continually invested their trust in the country, including those who have offered help during times of calamity and disaster, those who welcomed the Filipinos abroad and those who persistently work with the Philippine government towards mutual development.

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