Andanar: There was no intention to snub Kris Aquino

MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte had no intention to snub Kris Aquino during an event last Friday in Davao City for the micro, small and medium enterprises, a Palace official said Sunday.

Presidential Communications Office Secretary Martin Andanar said even the other government officials expected that Duterte would attend the event, which Kris hosted.

"No, there was no intention to snub Kris Aquino... the alter ego of the President at the Department of Trade and Industry, Secretary (Ramon) Mon Lopez, is there, he's the one who spoke on behalf of the President," he said over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

He said Joey Concepcion of "Go Negosyo" was also present as well as the other government agencies responsible to cover the President.

"The whole force of the government supporting the program, then you just read between the lines, that it is supported by the government," Andanar said.

Palace officials have said that Duterte failed to attend the event hosted by Kris, sister of former president Benigno Aquino III, because he was not feeling well after embarking on several foreign trips.

Later that night, he attended the launching of Pilipinong May Puso Foundation, which was established in honor of the President's mother, Soledad Roa Duterte.