‘I hope this day will never end’
PHILIPPINES - President Duterte was all smiles as he welcomed candidates of the 65th Miss Universe pageant in Malacañang on Monday. The President said he had never been in a room full of beautiful women.
“It is a privilege and an honor and I hope that this day will never end,” Duterte said in remarks at a courtesy call by candidates of Miss Universe 2016 to be held here on January 30.
President Duterte, known for his off-the-cuff remarks and curse-laden rants over criticism on his ongoing war against illegal drugs, stuck to the script.
“I dont read my speeches, I am really not up to it, but this time, they told me I must behave,” he said.
Mister Duterte appeared
to be having a good time as he posed for photos with 84 of the candidates.
He made gestures, as if to point out the fact that all the women towered over him. Two candidates, Miss Finland and Miss Switzerland, were unable to make the courtesy call as they were not feeling well.
“They have to rest. The doctor’s advice,” Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo, who accompanied the candidates, told reporters, adding “They’re not used to the hot weather.” The President thanked the Miss Universe Organization for allowing the Philippines to host the event.
He said the pageant is an opportunity to advance women empowerment, and also a chance for candidates to make an impact on the world. He offered the candidates the country’s modest hospitality, enduring friendship, and promised them even more delights in the days to come. “Thats the end of my speech but there is something more that I must do. And even without you participating, may I just give you a toast by myself...to your beauty and to your brain. Mabuhay kayong lahat [long live all of you],” Duterte said at the end of his speech. A seat has been reserved for President Duterte at the Miss Universe coronation night a week from now. Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said he was “not entirely sure,” if the President would attend. “I suppose he would like to,” Abella added.
(CNN Philippines)