President Duterte wished that the Philippines becomes more progressive and prosperous during a surprise party on the eve of his 74th birth anniversary thrown by his staff Wednesday at the Matina Enclaves in Davao City.
As he entered a room, Duterte was greeted by his staff singing him a happy birthday. Waiting for him was a Philippine flag-themed birth anniversary cake.
“My wish, well that this government will prosper and huwag sana tayo masali sa – it’s a very topsy-turvy world kaya pati ‘yong mga Chinese eh medyo…My wish is that we will just continue to progress and prosper as a nation. Hindi tayo sasali diyan sa mga gulu-gulo sa ibang bayan,” he said when asked about his birth anniversary wish.
Duterte reiterated that he does not plan to have a lavish celebration and would prefer to sleep. He, however, thanked those who prepared the party, assuring them that he will treat them soon.
“I wish you all happiness. Hindi naman ako nag-blow out talaga but maybe next week i-blow out ko kayo,” he said. “I will go in my house. I’ll be sleeping the all day,” he added.
Duterte usually celebrates his birth anniversary at home where he is visited by grandchildren even before he become president. This year is no different as Malacañang cleared his schedule for his special day.
Current and former high-ranking Malacañang officials led by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea greeted Duterte on his birth anniversary yesterday.
Medialdea said that he is hoping Duterte will be able to realize his dreams for the country.
“I hope you get to spend your birthday in your own special way,” he said. “My wish for you is that during your term, you will see the fulfillment of your vision and dreams for our country and the Filipino, especially our young ones,” he added.
“Iba ka, saludo ako sa iyo Sir! Happy Birthday and many more! Dito din kami, sa likod lang ninyo,” Medialdea said.
Medialdea thanked Duterte for being a leader who is devoted to serve Filipinos. “Your perseverance and dedication for our nation continue to inspire us all. We pray that you will continue to guide us with your wisdom, courage and strength for many years to come,” he said.
“I wish that each and every Filipino will see how hard you work for them and that they will understand how much you really love our country and our people,” he added.
Senators wished Duterte “good health” on this birth anniversary.
“I wish the President success in providing jobs and opportunities for all Filipinos, and a healthy long life. Happy Birthday, Mr. President,” Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said.
Sen. Panfilo Lacson likewise asked for Duterte’s “better health.”
“Because we cannot afford na magkaroon ng destabilization on account of the death of a President. And of course siyempre buhay din ‘yan. So sana maging healthy kung anong dinaramdam, magamot buong ano, from head to foot,” he said. “Pangalawa, continue doing the good things and do away with the bad things,” the senator added.
Sen. Sonny Angara also “wished him good health and happiness and more time with his family.”
Sen. Joel Villanueva referred to a Bible verse in conveying his prayers for the President. “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well,” Villanueva said, citing 3 John 2. (Argyll Geducos and Hannah Torregoza)
