MANILA, Philippines – As President Duterte marked his 74th birth anniversary Thursday, he received a cordial greeting from a staunch critic – with a hint of criticism.
“Nais kong ihatid ang aking pagbati sa ika-74 kaarawan ng ating Pangulo. As the President and father of our great nation, I wish that he nurtures, protects, and takes care of the poor and the underprivileged. I wish that he exemplifies and holds dear the good values and traditions that we Filipinos treasure,” Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano said in a statement.
“I pray that as a leader, may he be a figure that will unify and unite the people instead of dividing them,” he added.
Alejano, who is aiming for a Senate seat under the opposition coalition Otso Diretso slate, has denounced the administration’s stand on various issues including the war on drugs and the Chinese military’s activities on disputed areas in the West Philippine Sea.
On the other hand, Duterte has also lashed out at Alejano on several occasions.
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“I wish and hope that he channel all his energy, all his strength, all his anger in upholding our country’s sovereignty and protecting us from those who threaten our democracy and liberty,” Alejano said.
“Lastly, may he personally encounter God and accept Him in his life, and together may they lead our nation towards peace and development.” / gsg