President Marcos has paid tribute to his mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, as she celebrated her 97th birthday, describing her as the "heart" of their family and a figure who had witnessed and helped shape Philippine history.

In a birthday message posted on his official social media pages on Thursday, July 2, the President reflected on his mother's long life and legacy of public service.

"Few are blessed with the gift of celebrating 97 years. Fewer still are blessed to spend them surrounded by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who continue to draw strength from your love and guidance," Marcos wrote.

The President said his mother had lived an "extraordinary life" that not only shaped their family but also left a lasting imprint on the country.

"You have lived an extraordinary life. One that has witnessed history, shaped our family and left an indelible mark on our nation," he said.

Marcos also acknowledged his mother's decades in public service, saying her work continued to be remembered by many Filipinos.

"Through decades of public service, you touched lives in ways that continue to be remembered," he said.

Despite her public life, the President said his mother remained, above all, the center of the Marcos family.

"Above all that you have done and all that you have meant to so many people, you have been the heart of our family and the best Mum we could ever ask for," he wrote.

The President ended his message with a prayer for his mother's continued health and more years with her family.

"May God continue to bless you with many more years surrounded by the family who loves you dearly," he said.

Imelda Marcos is the widow of former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and the mother of President Marcos, Sen. Imee Marcos, and Irene Marcos-Araneta.

Imelda Marcos served as First Lady from 1965 to 1986 during the administration of her husband, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

She later served as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the second district of Ilocos Norte from 2010 to 2019 and previously Leyte's first district from 1995 to 1998.

During her years in public service, the Marcos matriarch also became associated with the development of several major cultural and medical institutions, including the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Philippine Heart Center, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Lung Center of the Philippines, and the Philippine International Convention Center, institutions that continue to serve Filipinos today.

The former First Lady turned 97 on July 2, making her one of the oldest surviving former first ladies in the country's history.