Photographer Lito Sy took to social media to clarify speculations on costs behind Isabelle Duterte’s photo shoot in Malacañang.
In a Facebook post, Sy said he executed the shoot for free as a favor to Isabelle’s mom, Lovelie Sangkola Sumera. She is “a very good friend of mine in Davao during early 90s.”
He emphasized that Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, Isabelle’s father, did not shell out anything for the shoot. Paolo is President Rodrigo Duterte’s first son.
“May kaya naman po si Mommy ni Isabelle na isang businesswoman,” he said. (Isabelle’s mom is a businesswoman and is well-off.)
The red gown from Garimon Roferos Couture was reportedly “sponsored” because the designer was also a “good friend” of Sumera.
Since the gowns were flown in, it is unclear if airfare was paid for.
The rest of the gowns from local designers Rica Rico and Rosenthal Tee were also borrowed through stylist Jeff Galang “in exchange for credits and milage (sic).”
The heels were also borrowed since Isabelle is signed under Viva Artists Agency.
Sy said only Galang and makeup artist Winn Ramos were given fees. Galang received P25,000 while Ramos’ fee was not disclosed.
He also described the presidential granddaughter as “very down to earth.”
In another Facebook post, acclaimed novelist and New York Times opinion writer Miguel Syjuco speculated on the costs of the photo shoot: a gown from Rosenthal Tee costs between P25,000 to P200,000, while the Garimon Roferos gown could run up to P686,350.
Syjuco estimated that Sy charged P150,000 to P250,000; but Sy denied this in his post — “How I wish!” he said.
All these would bring the photo shoot’s estimated cost to about P800,000, according to Syjuco.
On social media, Isabelle Duterte poses in designer jewelry, bags and clothing. On the other hand, President Duterte has projected an image of simplicity. Regarding his granddaughter’s photo shoot, he said, “It’s a small matter.” JB
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