Birthday bind: Will Duterte spend it in Davao City or ‘dangerously’ in Manila?

In this file photo, President Rodrigo Duterte blows the candles on a birthday cake presented to him by members of the PMA Class 2018. It was not clear when the photo was taken but it was shared by his long-time aide, then Special Assistant to the President Bong Go, on his Facebook page in 2018.

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte is in a “dilemma” on whether to spend his birthday with his grandchildren in his hometown Davao City or spend it “dangerously” in Manila as the government addresses the threats of COVID-19, Malacañang said Friday.

The President is turning 75 on Saturday, March 28.

“For a man in whose hands lie the heavy burden of steering the ship of state in these perilous times, he faces the dilemma of celebrating his natal day savoring the simple joy of playing with his grandchildren in Davao or spending it dangerously in Manila amongst his people to lead them in the war of survival against the coronavirus which has placed them, including himself, on the brink of disaster and death,” Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

The country is currently under a state of calamity due to COVID-19. Luzon was eventually placed under an enhanced community quarantine to limit the public’s movement in a bid to avert the spread of the respiratory disease.

“Consistent with his daredevil character and deep filial ties, the President will most likely opt to either being ensconced safely and quietly with his loved ones in his comfort zone or continue with his manning the ramparts against the enemy. Given his dexterity it is unsurprising if he would probably do both with ease,” Panelo added.

On his 74th birthday last year, the President said he would celebrate it by staying at home and sleeping.

Duterte also spent his birthday at his home in Davao City in 2017 and 2018.

KGA