DAVAO CITY – Even if President Rodrigo Duterte was nowhere in sight on the wee hours of March 28, his 73rd birthday, supporters still arrived at Dona Luisa Subdivision to serenade him.
As early as 4 a.m, supporters came in groups near Duterte’s residence. One member of a group of Federalism backers said even if the President was not around, they just want the President to know they came to greet him.
Others came in trickles in later hours hoping to greet the President personally.
Others sent him the best wishes via the social media including presidential children, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, and former vice mayor Paolo Duterte greeted him a happy birthday.
Mayor Sara posted her greetings with a picture of her and Stonefish.
The former vice mayor’s message was longer. He even apologized to the President for the many shortcomings as a son but thankful for all his support.
“Pa sa tanan kalagot ug kalipay sa atong duha, ako magpabiling anak nimo. Sa tanan yawyaw nimo nako, Pa naminaw ko, gidawat nako ug nakasabot ko. Dili dali mahimong amahan sa pinakabut-an nimong anak! (Pa for all the anger and happiness between us, I remain your son. For all what you said, I accept and understand. It is not easy to be a father of your good son),” he said in his Facebook post.
“Pasaylua ko sa mga panahon na nadungagan nako imong UBAN (white hair) (Forgive me for the times that I have added to your white hair),” he said in jest.
Paolo also wished the day when the President will be proud of him.
“I know that I would never attain what you have achieved in your lifetime, but I can assure you that I will do my best to make you proud. Maningkamot ko ug akong mga igsuon nga di ka mapahiya sa amua (I and my siblings will try our best not to shame you),” he vowed.
On the other hand, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque shared his birthday greetings to Duterte to the media on Wednesday.
“On this day, we are reminded of how blessed we are as a nation to be headed by someone who is known for his strong political will, decisive leadership and compassion for his fellowmen. I join the people in wishing our President a happy birthday!” Roque said.
Roque said, "It is my distinct privilege to work with the Chief Executive and have seen firsthand his hard work and dedication in fulfilling his goal of building a nation where opportunities abound and where citizens are empowered to realize their aspirations."
He cited the President’s sense of duty and fidelity to the country motivate government officials to work even harder to spread his message of genuine and meaningful change to the people.
“We pray that he will be blessed with more healthy years ahead so he may continue to guide our people to unity and prosperity. Happy Birthday, Mr. President!” Roque said.
Earlier, Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go extended his greetings to Duterte.
He said Duterte will be celebrating his birthday at home with his family as he has never been known to throw lavish birthday parties.
“Prayers from his well-wishers during his birthday would surely make him very happy,” Go said. Go, himself wished the President long life and healthy life for him continue serving the country. (Lilian C. Mellejor/PNA)
