Manila: Malaca±ang on Tuesday addressed criticisms aimed at President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. after he held a private birthday celebration for First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos during a period of severe flooding in parts of the country. The Palace refuted claims that the President was insensitive to the plight of disaster victims, labeling such accusations as the work of 'detractors' and 'obstructionists.'

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified at a press conference that the President's serenade for the First Lady occurred only after he had completed his official duties. She emphasized that the event did not take place during the peak of heavy rains or flooding. Castro stated, "The message that reached some of our fellow Filipinos was that the President serenaded the First Lady on the night when there were heavy rains and severe flooding in Central Luzon and Metro Manila. That's not true."

Castro further explained that Marcos' brief celebration with his wife was not held at the height of adverse weather conditions but after fulfilling his responsibilities. She reassured the public that the President continued to monitor the weather situation and remained committed to his duties, even while spending time with his family.

She also acknowledged the disappointment of some Filipinos who perceived the President's actions as insensitive, attributing the misunderstanding to misleading information spread by detractors. Castro stressed that Marcos only spent a short time with his family to mark the First Lady's birthday and asserted that this did not interfere with his responsibilities to the nation.

The Palace official concluded by highlighting the President's dedication to addressing the needs of Filipinos affected by severe weather conditions. She noted that Marcos remained focused on his duties throughout the week, ensuring that the needs of disaster victims were met, regardless of holidays or days off.