Sara Duterte questions choice of ‘Manila’ as SEA Games opening song

MANILA, Philippines — Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte questioned the use of the song “Manila” by the Filipino band Hotdog during the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games opening ceremony Saturday night.

Duterte on Sunday took to Instagram to criticize the song choice, saying it was the Philippine flag being held hence the need for inclusivity.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5gxwtaliCK/

“Di po ba Philippine flag ang dala? Why would you play the song Manila? Did Lapu-Lapu die for Manila? Wag po natin gawing excuse ang upbeat danceable song. Kami nagimbento ng budots. Kaloko man oie,” Duterte said.

“We should be inclusive when we want to encourage our countrymen to cheer,” she added.

Duterte said she is being “negative” since she is far from being Tagalog, noting her Visayas and Mindanao heritage.

“Yes, nega ako, bakit? I am a Filipino but I don’t have one drop of Tagalog blood in me. Pure Vismin by birth and Ilocos by marriage. #bastabisayahilas add na natin German American for the glam,” she said.

Duterte’s father President Rodrigo Duterte was seen waving his hands through the tune of “Manila” when he attended the SEA Games opening ceremony held at the Philippine Arena.

Edited by MUF