I celebrate my birthday on the same day as the Feast of St. Jude Thaddeus, who is known as the patron saint for those facing desperate and hopeless situations. Each year on October 28th, which also marks the anniversary of the saint’s death, I have made it a personal tradition to attend the Feast Novena Mass at the National Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus. This significant place of worship is situated in San Miguel, Manila, close to Malacañan Palace, the official residence and office of the President of the Philippines.