President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hosted thousands of well-wishers and guests at Malacañang for the annual “Salo-Salo sa Palasyo” to mark his birthday.
The public thanksgiving event drew massive crowds to the Kalayaan Grounds starting Monday, September 14.
President Marcos arrived before noon alongside First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, receiving a warm welcome from attendees, including public school students who led the crowd in singing birthday wishes.
Addressing the gathered crowd, the President conveyed his gratitude to those who spent the day celebrating with him at the executive mansion.
”Thank you very much. Maraming, maraming, maraming salamat. At kayo ay naki-celebrate sa akin, sa aking kaarawan,” Marcos said.
He noted his surprise at the turnout both in Manila and in satellite celebrations organized across the nation.
”At nakakatuwa naman, hindi ko po akalain na nandito at makakarating kayo lahat. Hindi lamang dito sa Malacañang, kung hindi sa lahat ng iba’t ibang lugar sa buong Pilipinas,” he added.
As part of the nationwide festivities, the Chief Executive connected with local officials from around 90 regional locations via teleconference.
”Thank you very much. Sana naman ay mag-enjoy kayo dahil yung party natin ay hindi lamang isang lugar, kung hindi 90 locations around the country. I thank you all very much,” Marcos said.
”You have made this a very, very, very happy birthday for me. Thank you very much. We love you very much. And I hope to see you soon. And we will also celebrate in person,” he added.
The President also extended his appreciation to local government leaders for their ongoing assistance to the administration’s initiatives.
”Thank you for your good wishes. Thank you for all that you have done to support me and the work that we are doing,” Marcos said.
Palace gates opened to the public early Tuesday, offering visitors live entertainment, magic performances, stilt walkers, and free food kiosks.