MANILA: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. engaged in discussions with Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Thursday to finalize the agenda for the upcoming Cabinet meeting, scheduled for January 7, 2025. This meeting marks the first full Cabinet gathering of the new year.

According to Philippines News Agency, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Cesar Chavez communicated with Palace reporters via text message, providing details about the planned Cabinet meeting. Chavez stated, "The President will be comparing some notes with the Executive Secretary today," highlighting the focus on the meeting's agenda. Chavez further elaborated that key topics of discussion would include legacy projects and significant undertakings funded by Official Development Assistance (ODA).

President Marcos has previously led two full Cabinet meetings, two special Cabinet meetings, and 49 sectoral Cabinet meetings last year. The upcoming session is anticipated to continue the government's focus on strategic planning and implementation of major projects.

Beyond the Cabinet meeting preparations, Chavez mentioned that Marcos is set to engage in private meetings. As the President welcomed the beginning of 2025 with his family at Bahay Pangulo, the official residence on the Malaca±an grounds, he also issued a New Year's message. In his statement, Marcos conveyed optimism, expressing hope that the lessons from the past year would guide the nation toward a promising and purposeful future.