The annual L-Istrina fundraising telethon will go ahead as planned, President George Vella said today. As usual, the event will be held on Boxing Day.

Over the past few days, there have been calls to boycott the event because of the ongoing political crisis.

Speaking during a visit at the Public Broadcasting Service, President Vella said the event will be not be cancelled or postponed because the sick and vulnerable do not have a particular day or time when they need care.

He said that the event is an opportunity for the country to come together in solidarity with those in need.

During the visit, an agreement between the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation and PBS was signed, formalising the commitment by both sides towards organising L-Istrina.

PBS Chairman Tonio Portughese said the national broadcaster has a role to educate people, as well as a social role.

President Vella appealed to the PBS to broadcast information in an objective manner.