By Argyll Cyrus Geducos
President Duterte said that he just wants to sleep and stay at home instead of having a big party to celebrate his 74th birthday Thursday.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his speech after leading the ceremonial distribution of grants to the beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Unconditional Cash Transfer and Sustainable Livelihood Program at the Provincial Capitol Compound in Koronadal City, South Cotabato on March 26, 2019. RICHARD MADELO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
Duterte made the statement as he led the proclamation rally of PDP-Laban in South Cotabato late Tuesday evening.
In his speech, Duterte said he does not want any fanfare during his big day, noting that he prefers to just spend it quietly with his loved ones.
"I really do not want to celebrate. I just want to stay at home and sleep, and if there is somebody welcome to me, it’s my children and grandchildren," he said.
Early Tuesday, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte would be doing the usual for his birthday--staying in his house in Davaao City and celebrating with his family.
Last week, Duterte mentioned that now he is turning 74, he has grown tired and is now just finding a way out of politics and retire.
"Ako matanda na. Ngayong buwan na ito mag 74 na ako. P— ina mo kasi pagod na ako sa inyo... Naghahanap lang ako talaga ng lusot na para makapagpahinga na. Pagod na rin ako kaya (I am already old. I am turning 74 this month and I am already tired of all of you. I'm just looking for a way out so I can rest. I am so tired so) do not f—k with me," he said, referring to criminals and drug personalities.
Duterte has been known to spending his birthdays in the simplest manner possible. On the eve of his first birthday as president in 2017, Duterte met with Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua, and Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó.
In 2018, Duterte also spent his birthday at home and welcome well-wishers. Clad in his regular home clothes, Duterte was also visited by his six grandchildren.
Duterte was born on March 28, 1945 in Maasin, Southern Leyte to former Davao Governor Vicente Duterte and Soledad Roa, a teacher.