British pop rock band Duran Duran performed at a private birthday party for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Pasay City on Friday, September 13, according to a confirmation from Malacañang. The event, organized by Marcos’ friends, came at no cost to the government, as emphasized by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
Vlogger and former Duterte supporter Sass Rogando Sasot initially revealed the performance in a series of Facebook posts. Sasot claimed that Duran Duran was flown in specifically to entertain at the birthday celebration held at the Marriott Hotel. She further suggested that Filipino taxpayers had funded the event, urging the public to join in the festivities.
In response, the PCO confirmed that the birthday party indeed took place, with Duran Duran providing entertainment for the approximately 80 attendees. However, the PCO clarified in a statement issued on Saturday, September 14, that the event was not paid for using public funds, highlighting that the party was a personal celebration organized by Marcos’ friends.
“After a tiring day filled with official engagements, the President 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 stated.
PCO Secretary Cesar Chavez also emphasized that the government did not bear any costs for the celebration. The famed band, known for 80s hits like “Ordinary World,” “Save a Prayer,” and “A View to a Kill,” was a surprise feature of the party.
The President’s birthday was framed as a regular workday, with the PCO emphasizing his public service commitments. On the same day, President Marcos participated in several public engagements, including offering assistance to farmers and patients in government hospitals.
“The President celebrated his birthday with his signature compassion for the needy and the sick, and his deep appreciation for the farmers who feed the nation,” the PCO added.
In addition to attending the private event, Marcos also hosted a public celebration at Malacañang, where he opened the palace gates and provided food booths for citizens who came to greet him.