Whoever knew that President-elect Bongbong Marcos had a pet name for former President Joseph "Erap" Estrada?
Marcos revealed his term of endearment for Estrada Friday afternoon, June 10 during his speech at the Award for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APCU) event held at Dusit Thani Manila hotel. The incoming leader was the guest of honor.
"Allow me to greet our distinguished guests, headed by our former President Joseph Estrada," he said at the beginning of his speech.
"Ang tawag ko sa kanya, siya ang aking 'among tunay'. Mula noong siya'y naging pangulo, ang tawag ko kay Pangulong Erap ay ang aking among tunay. Hanggang ngayon, kahit tayo'y napalaran na. Boss, among tunay, good to see you po (I call him my 'real boss'. From the time he became president, I've called President Erap my real boss. Up to now, even if I've won . Boss, my real boss, good to see you sir)," Marcos said.
In the official transcript subsequently to reporters by the Marcos camp, "among tunay" wax translated as "real father".
Estrada served as Philippine president from 1998 to 2001. At that time, Marcos was the governor of Ilocos Norte.
During his own speech at the event, Estrada said: "Greetings to President-elect Bongbong Marcos Jr. and first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, His Excellency Ambassador Huang Xilian, to all other dignitaries and visitors, a good day to all."
"I am very thankful for all those who make up the APCU and the Chinese Embassy for recognizing my contributions in strengthening the friendship and relations between China and Philippines through history. May the strong bond of brotherly friendship between China and the Philippines continue to grow and prosper in the years to come. Thank you very much and mabuhay (long live) to all," he added.