PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Friday his father, former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr., taught him “the most important lessons of life,” particularly public service.
In his speech at the wreath-laying ceremony at Marcos Sr.’s monument in Batac City, Ilocos Norte, during the 109th birth anniversary, the president said his father’s way “was to teach by example and to teach by leadership. And even when I was just talking to him, even when I was just spending time with him, what rare time that was, I did not know it, but he was already teaching me, that he was already training me.”
“And he was training me not to become an important public figure, not to reach the heights of political leadership and position, but he taught me about public service,” he added.
Marcos said the principle guided his father’s career from military service to the presidency and continues to steer his administration’s day-to-day governance.
“Public service must be about your country and your countrymen,” he said.
Earlier in the day, Marcos took to Facebook to express his birthday greeting to his father.
“My father, from whom I learnt the most important lessons of life. Who taught me to value duty, honor and country to live for others and not oneself. Happy Birthday, Dad,” he said in the post.
Marcos also attended a Mass and the “Natnateng” (Vegetables) Cook-off at the Imelda Cultural Center, where the province’s signature vegetable dishes were showcased.
The celebration will also commemorate the president’s 69th birthday on Sept. 13, which coincides with his attendance at the 18th Brics (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit in New Delhi.
