MANILA - Malacañang held its annual traditional reception called the vin d'honneur to mark the new year. Addressing government officials and members of the diplomatic community, President Aquino said despite the magnitude of the devastation caused by typhoon "Yolanda," the Filipino people came through with their faith strengthened. Aquino also thanked the country's allies and partners in the international community for the help they have extended to the Philippines in times of dire need. Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto, Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, also paid tribute to the Filipino people who faced the challenge of Yolanda as well as other recent calamities. He said that when faced with tragedy, Filipinos showed the strength of their character and their faith. ANC Dateline Philippines, January 10, 2014