It is still uncertain whether or not a policy on holding social events in Malacañang will be issued as an offshoot of the birthday celebration of former first lady Imelda Marcos, which raised concerns among netizens over the weekend.
Concerns over holding lavish social events in the Palace were raised by the public when photos and videos showing the Marcoses celebrating the former first lady's birthday made rounds on social media.
The Malacañang did not release a statement on the celebration and made clear that it will only comment on issues involving the public's interest.
During the first press briefing in Malacañang on Monday, July 4, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles said that because it was a family affair, it is uncertain whether a policy will be put in place following the birthday celebration.
"We acknowledge those concerns. There is no policy yet in place. 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 born out of this one but we'll certainly note that observation," Angeles said.
She also explained that they will only comment on official policy, issuances, and statements of the President.
On the billboard greeting Imelda on her birthday, she said they cannot make a comment on it since the "billboard does not appear to be public nor put up by any government agency."
The press secretary also assured that President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. will "adhere to law" in terms of holding social events in Malacañang.
"We assure you that the President will adhere to law. And so that is the presumption. The President has no directive in excess of anything that is written in the law," Angeles said.
While there was not much information released to the public on the inaugural dinner held by the President on June 30, Angeles said it was "simple, solemn, and traditional." She said it was also well-attended but did not divulge any more details.
'"The inaugural dinner went very well. It was well-attended. It was a happy occasion for everybody who is there. The dinner was solemn, the whole inaugural was simple, solemn, and traditional...It was generally a joyful but simple and traditional occasion. That's the best way I can describe it right now," Angeles said.