There will be no excessive spending for parties and other social events in Malacañang during the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.
Press Secretary Beatrix “Trixie” Cruz-Angeles made the assurance after pictures and videos of the inauguration party and the birthday celebration of Former First Lady Imelda R. Marcos held in the Rizal Hall of Malacañang last week circulated online drew flak from netizens.
She noted every expense in the said party and other social events will comply with the restrictions provided by law.
“We assure you that the President will adhere to the law, and so that is the presumption. The President doesn’t need no directive in excess of anything that is written in the law,” Angeles said.
The Palace official said they understand the concerns of the public, especially both of the earlier mentioned parties were held in the traditional residence of the President.
“We acknowledge those concerns. There’s no policy yet in place and that’s all that we can really say about it. It was a family affair. And so I don’t know if a policy will be borne out of this one. But certainly we will note that observation,” Angeles said referring to the birthday bash of the former First Lady.
As to the inauguration party, Angeles maintained the event was “solemn, simple and traditional” amid public criticism of its supposed extravagant features, including a golden medallion given to guests as souvenirs.
“It was well attended. It was a happy occasion for everybody who was there and that’s pretty much it,” Angeles said.
When asked about the total government funds spent for the event, Marcos Jr. said they are still waiting for the final figure.