“AT NO COST TO THE GOVERNMENT” PCO Defends Surprise Duran-Duran Concert at President Bongbong Marcos’ Birthday

- Advertisement -

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) defended the recent birthday celebration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. from criticism.

The English pop rock band Duran-Duran was invited to perform at a luxury hotel in Pasay City for the President’s 67th birthday last Friday.

- Advertisement -

According to PCO Secretary Cesar Chavez, the government did not spend any money on the event. In a text message to Malacañang reporters, Chavez stated, “At no cost to the government.”

He further explained that the event was funded by the President’s close friends. The performance by Duran-Duran was reportedly a surprise, even to the President himself.

Chavez emphasized that on the President’s actual birthday, he was busy helping the poor and the sick, and also provided assistance to farmers. Additionally, he opened Malacañang Palace to the public, where free meals were served.

However, the private event drew negative reactions, as reports claimed that over $700,000 (equivalent to more than ₱35 million) was spent to hire the English pop rock band, while the venue cost more than ₱38 million.

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

Latest

DFA confirms espionage-related arrests of 3 Filipinos in China, assures continued legal support

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)...

Stray Dog Turned ‘Employee’ with Company ID Goes Viral in Rizal

A mixed-breed stray dog named “Puti” has gone viral...

Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Surpasses 3,000 as Rescue Efforts Continue

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in...

Sandiganbayan Rejects Jinggoy Estrada’s Appeal to Dismiss Graft Cases

The Sandiganbayan has denied Senator Jinggoy Estrada’s appeal to...

17 Filipino OFWs in Qatar Granted Provisional Release – DMW

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has confirmed that...

Newsletter

Stray Dog Turned ‘Employee’ with Company ID Goes Viral in Rizal

A mixed-breed stray dog named “Puti” has gone viral on social media after being spotted wearing an employee ID at a hardware store in...

One Dead, Seven Injured as Vehicle Plunges Off Cliff

One person died while seven others were injured after a private vehicle carrying uniformed personnel and minors fell off a cliff in Purok Tuburan,...

Palace Assures Readiness in Case ‘The Big One’ Strikes

The Philippine government has assured the public of its preparedness in the event of 'The Big One,' a potential catastrophic earthquake. According to Palace Press...