On Duterte’s 76th birthday, Palace wishes him ‘more healthy years ahead’

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang wished President Rodrigo Duterte “more healthy years ahead” to fulfil his vision of bringing a “genuine and meaningful change” in the Philippines as the Chief Executive turned 76 years old on Sunday.

“We pray to the Almighty to continue giving President Duterte more healthy years ahead so he may continue fulfilling his vision of bringing about genuine and meaningful change in our society,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

Roque also shared witnessing the President’s leadership that have “inspired” many to deliver good public service.

“As PRRD’s Official Spokesperson, I have seen firsthand our Chief Executive’s decisive and compassionate leadership, coupled with his hard work and love of country, and how these served the interest and betterment of the Filipinos and inspired officials in the government – myself included – to deliver public service which our people truly deserve,” Roque said.

“Pagpalain kayo ng Dakilang Lumikha. Maligayang kaarawan, mahal na Pangulo!” he added.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar likewise hoped for Duterte’s sound health as he greeted the President a happy birthday.

“Amidst the pandemic, may President Duterte continue to enjoy a sound health so that he may carry on instituting real change to our country and society, and leading all Filipinos towards collective recovery from this pandemic, inclusive growth, and equitable progress,” Andanar said.

In a press briefing on Saturday, Roque said Duterte will celebrate his birthday in Davao City. The President will return to Manila on Monday to welcome the arrival of the procured one million doses of Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines or CoronaVac.

Roque has previously said that Duterte’s wish for his 76th birthday is for the Philippines to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year, Duterte spent his birthday while on self-quarantine in Malacañang.

JE