President Duterte welcomed Christmas in Davao City with his family, including his former wife Elizabeth Zimmerman.
In a photo shared by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, the President can be seen enjoying a meal with his former wife inside their home.
President Duterte was married to Zimmerman for 27 years before their marriage was annulled in 2000. Despite their separation, Zimmerman said in 2016 that the President still takes care of her.
Duterte flew to Davao City earlier this week to celebrate the holidays in his hometown.
It is, however, unsure, if the President will also welcome the New Year there.
“Ang Pasko po, sigurado [sa Davao City]. Pero hindi ko pa po alam ang Bagong Taon (I am sure that he will spend Christmas in Davao City, but I am not sure about the New Year),” presidential spokesman Harry Roque said.
In his Christmas message, President Duterte wished for the public to have a meaningful celebration despite how challenging 2020 was for everybody.
“This year has been a trying time for all of us. Many lives were lost and forever changed due to [the] COVID-19 pandemic and several natural calamities,” he said.
“But through it all, we continue to survive and rise because of our unity, strength, and indomitable spirit of [the] Filipino,” he added.
“May we all have a meaningful celebration and let us be hopeful for the better days ahead.”
The President likewise urged Filipinos to “allow Christ into our lives so that we could bring love and cheer not only to our families and friends but also to those who are most in need.”
Last week, President Duterte asked the public to follow health protocols to prevent a spike of COVID-19 cases during the holidays. (Argyll Cyrus B. Geducos)