Duterte turns 72 today

It will be a simple and private affair when President Duterte celebrates his 72nd birth anniversary today.

The President is expected to spend his birth anniversary with his family and close friends without fanfare, according to his spokesman Ernesto Abella.

“Traditionally, the President marks his birthday quietly without fanfare. He spends some quality time with family and close friends,” Abella said.

“While certain offices may hold parallel celebration, the President usually veers away public attention on his private and personal affairs,” he said.

So far, the President, who has been staying in Davao City since the weekend, has no scheduled public appointments today.

The President earlier said his birth anniversary wish was more energy and time to serve the nation and address the country’s problems.

Duterte, who has waged a controversial war on illegal drugs, crime, and corruption, said he has reached the “apex” of his career and no longer wants any birth anniversary gifts.

“If you have something for me, some are very expensive, you know I do not need it anymore. At saka maski bigyan ninyo ako ng mga diyamante for every finger, I cannot wear it. Otherwise, I’d be stupid,” he said in a recent media interview.

The President’s communication officials wished him happiness on his birth anniversary.

“With all the responsibilities PRRD has right now, I wish him more time for himself and the small things in life that make him happy,” Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said.

Abella, for his part, said: “I wish that his dreams for a great Filipino nation all come true.”