Palace greets Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on 65th birthday

MANILA, Philippines—The Aquino administration on Maundy Thursday marked former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s 65th birthday with her image emblazoned as one of banner images on the Official Gazette website, www.gov.ph.

The government did so despite the known political differences between President Benigno Aquino III and his predecessor and the electoral sabotage and graft cases Arroyo is facing before the country’s courts.

“As a matter of practice, the Official Gazette banner features photos of past presidents on their birthdays,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a text message.

As in last year, it posted a banner this year to greet the former president on her birthday, she added.

Asked if the website does the same for deposed former presidents like Ferdinand Marcos and Joseph Estrada, Valte said, “Yes. No exceptions.”

Malacañang earlier wished Arroyo better health, a meaningful Holy Week and a happy birthday.

Arroyo is currently under hospital arrest at the Veterans’ Memorial Medical Center.