Palace defends Marcos over First Lady’s birthday serenade, says flood response continued

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 02, 2026

Photo courtesy: Vigan Mayor Bonito Singson FB

MANILA — Malacañang defended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after videos of him singing during First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ birthday celebration drew criticism while several areas in Luzon were dealing with floods.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the private celebration did not happen at the height of the heavy rains and flooding.

She said Marcos had already finished his official engagements for the day when he spent time with his wife and close family members.

Castro also said the President continued to monitor the weather and the situation in flood-hit areas.

The videos showed Marcos serenading the First Lady during a post-birthday celebration on Aug. 26. The First Lady turned 67 on Aug. 21. The clips later circulated online and drew criticism from people who viewed the celebration as insensitive while communities were dealing with the effects of the southwest monsoon.

Castro acknowledged why some Filipinos were disappointed.

However, she said the public was given the impression that the serenade happened while heavy rains and severe flooding were at their peak.

“That is not true,” Castro said, adding that there was no bad weather at the time of the celebration.

She stressed that Marcos only spent a short time with his family and did not abandon his duties.

The Palace said government operations and disaster response continued even while the President attended the private gathering.

Marcos had also ordered government agencies to quickly provide assistance to communities affected by the recent heavy rains. Malacañang earlier said he was closely monitoring conditions in flood-hit areas.

Castro said the President remained focused on helping affected Filipinos even during holidays and days when government work was suspended.

Malacañang maintained that spending a brief period with his family did not prevent Marcos from carrying out his responsibilities as President.