President Duterte marked his 72nd birthday without too much fanfare but surrounded by love and support from family and friends.
The President, who has wished for more strength and time to resolve the country’s problems, spent his special day with his family and close friends in Davao City, far from political noise in Manila.
“Maayos naman,” Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said in a Palace press briefing when asked how the President was on his birthday.
“I’m not privy to his (plans). It’s usually a very quiet affair with family and friends – very simple, something that suits his personality,” he added.
The President’s children and allies have poured birthday wishes to the President, from good health to strength, and pledged support for his presidency.
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio sent a birthday greeting to the President via Facebook coupled with a photograph with him and her newborn Stonefish.
“Happy Birthday Digong. Padala humba diri sa balay karun paniudto, salamat. Good health cheers!” the President’s daughter said.
The President’s son, Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, also wished him a happy birthday and expressed gratitude for risking his life for the country. “Pa, we are here on the sidelines always supporting you and fighting with you for the good of our beloved Philippines,” he wrote in Visayan. A number of Cabinet members also shared their birthday wishes for the President through social media.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana tweeted: “Happy birthday, Mayor @RRD_Davao! I wish you long life and good health.
Many happy returns!”
“Happy Birthday President Rodrigo Roa Duterte! May you achieve the noble dreams you have for our Philippines!”
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a Facebook post.
Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo also wished the President’s good health and protection from harm and injury. (Genalyn Kabiling)