"Or the President’s air purifier."
So, it took a state visit to Russia recently to get out of the way the issue of President Duterte’s “less than statesmanlike” style of dressing—or so his critics say.
It was an elephant in the room that had lingered until some Czech blogger criticized Manong Digong for his “unkempt” looks during his initial meeting with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev.
To settle the issue once and for all, Malacañang clarified that the President did not actually look unkempt then. He only needed to loosen up his necktie a bit and feel more comfortable. To his fashion critics, Manong Digong said, “You know, I dress not to please anybody. I dress myself just to be comfortable. Kaya bihira akong mag-Amerikana. For one, it is not an attire for the Filipino. Mainit ‘yang y*** na ‘yan.”
He did not go abroad to be in a fashion show, anyway.
Goody-goody, condescending, self-righteous critics are simply scandalized and horrified by Manong Digong’s unconventional and free-spirited ways, particularly the cussing during his speaking engagements.
But just as the talks about loosened necktie, unbuttoned shirts, and folded barong sleeves all got out of the way, here comes the hullabaloo over this “air purifier,” a little gadget the President wears with a lace around his neck. It caused a stir when he seen wearing it a number of occasions over the past week including the welcome ceremonies for visiting Indian President Ram Nath Kovind.
Again, this fueled his detractors’ wild imaginations, speculating about the seriousness of Manong Digong’s supposed disease.
“That is an air purifier so he will be protected from persons within his proximity who have coughs and colds,” said Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo.
It’s a personal air purifier that removes airborne pollutants including viruses, bacteria, and dust from the user’s personal space. It reportedly costs P7,000.
Concerns over Duterte’s health grew after he revealed that he has a rare neuromuscular disease called myasthenia gravis, characterized by weakness in the muscles that control eye and eyelid movement, facial expression, chewing, talking and swallowing.
Last Thursday, the 74-year-old motorcycle buff was slightly hurt after falling from his big bike. Manong Digong refused to go to the hospital. Apparently, he was fine.
Critics have been calling for transparency regarding the President’s health, demanding disclosure of his medical records since he admitted having several medical conditions.
It’s not like the President now goes around in a wheelchair with the support of a respirator.
Instead of preoccupying themselves with what ails the President, why can’t these critics just support him in treating the ills of society?
Despite his idiosyncrasies, we have a leader that makes things happen and walks the talk, and that’s what has endeared him to the people. Manong Digong is different from the previous useless tenants of the Palace. He represents real change.
It’s about time the President’s fashion critics and fault-finders took a hard look at themselves for a change.
