Malacañang defended President Rodrigo Duterte from critics after photos of his 76th birthday celebration in Davao City on Sunday went viral on social media.
Senator Christopher ‘Bong’ Go on Sunday released a photo of the President blowing a candle placed on top of a cup of rice, next to a plate with leftover pancit, as he extolled the Duterte’s simple lifestyle.
Netizens, however, were quick to post photos taken from a wider angle which showed the full birthday spread that included lechon.
A video of the celebration was also posted online showing the President playfully swatting at the lower body of his maid but not making contact.
Bayan Muna Rep. Ferdinand Gaite, in a Twitter post, said: “Acting poor for your birthday photo ops when you’re not really poor is just mocking those who truly have nothing to put on their tables for their own birthdays.”
But presidential spokesman Harry Roque said those criticizing Duterte are exhibiting crab mentality.
“I don’t think the President ever pretended to be poor. He has always been known as simple. That is why he did not have guests on his birthday,” Roque said Monday.
“The President never pretends — he is known for his authenticity. He has simple celebrations and I think that’s what happened on his birthday.”
“My favorite word now is crab mentality. What kind of celebration do you want for a sitting president? The only people present were immediate members of his family,” Roque added.
The Palace official also belied accusations that Duterte tried to molest his maid, saying there was no malice in the “playful gesture done in front of (the President’s partner) Ma’am Honeylet.”
“Matagal na niyang kasambahay iyon eh. Alam mo naman talagang palabiro ang ating Presidente pero wala pong malisya iyon,” Roque said.
“kung may magrereklamo, dapat iyong kasama niya sa bahay. Iyon lang po ‘yun,” Roque added.