President Rodrigo Roa Duterte chats with Senators Christopher “Bong” Lawrence Go and Ronald dela Rosa on March 1, 2018. KIWI BULACLAC/PRESIDENTIAL FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Two of President Rodrigo Duterte’s closest allies in the Senate on Monday wished their “idol” a happy birthday, with one expressing excitement for the Chief Executive’s “homecoming” after six years in the presidency.
“To my GOAT President and the person who taught me the art of defying the odds; Happy birthday sir! Thank you for making me who I am today. Utang na loob ko sa iyo ang lahat [I owe everything to you] sir. There’s no Bato if there’s no Digong!” Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Duterte’s first national police chief, said in a message to reporters.
“I am excited about your homecoming and everyone’s waiting for you back home after lending you to the nation for the last 6 years,” he added.
‘Idol, mentor’
Before venturing into politics, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who previously served as Duterte’s aide, wished his long-time boss good health and a long life ahead.
This, as he regarded Duterte as his “idol in public service.”
“Para sa aking idolo sa public service, my mentor, our President, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, maraming-maraming salamat sa lahat na natutunan ko sa ‘yo,” Go said.
(For my idol in public service, my mentor, our President, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, thank you for all the things I’ve learned from you.)
“Sa araw na ito, hangad ko na mas maraming birthdays pa ang darating sa buhay mo upang patuloy kang makapagsilbi sa ating kapwa tao. Alam kong mahal na mahal mo ang mga Pilipino. Maraming salamat sa lahat na ginawa mo para sa bayan, Mayor!” he added.
(On this day, I wish you more birthdays to come so you can continue serving the people. I know you love the Filipino people very much. Thank you for everything you’ve done for the country, Mayor!)
Duterte turned 77 years old on Monday. He only has a few months left before he steps down from the presidency.
Earlier, the President said he already feels “fulfilled,” citing his work as the country’s leader as well as the state of his children.
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