The Presidential Communications Office has confirmed persistent rumors that a birthday party for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had taken place on Friday in a Pasay City Hotel, and that English pop rock band Duran Duran entertained guests during the event.
“After a tiring day filled with official engagements, he attended a party thrown by his old friends at a hotel in Pasay, and to his surprise and appreciation, music was provided by Duran Duran,” the PCO said in a statement.
PCO Secretary Cesar Chavez, said in a text message that the party was held “at no cost to the government,” probably trying to deflect accusations by some social media personalities that the lavish party was funded by taxpayers.
However, even if a party for the President, where the entertainment alone is estimated to cost $750,000 to $900,000 (or approximately P42-56 million), did not cost the Filipino taxpayer a single cent, the public officials involved should know that such ostentatious gifts are prohibited under Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
Everyone loves a good party and the finer things in life, but public officials who swore to defend the Constitution should be aware of the “No Gift Policy” involving all public officials, employees, and personnel, particularly Section 7 (d) of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees: “Public officials and employees shall not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan, or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties in connection with any operation being regulated by, or by any transaction which may be affected by the functions of their office.”
In this country, it has to be repeated numerous times, both to the givers and the receivers, that gift giving is prohibited whenever public officials are involved. All public servants should know that, from the lowliest government employee, all the way to the head of state. When it comes to living such a lifestyle that is free from temptations and undue influence, it is the president that should take the lead by being a good example to the entire public sector.
As President, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. should have had the foresight to see how bad it looks to be attending a private concert party featuring Duran Duran on his birthday. If he avoids being penalized for this oversight, the issue should serve as a reminder to him and all public officials of the land to just say no when it comes to accepting gifts, whether it comes from those they consider “old friends,” or others who may have ulterior motives.*
