Erap ‘ninong’ of Rody’s grandson

DAVAO CITY , Philippines  – Former president and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada was among those who stood as godparents of baby Marko Digong Carpio, nicknamed Stonefish, the youngest son of presidential daughter and Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio during baptismal rites yesterday at the St. Francis of Assisi Church in Barangay Maa here.

Mayor Duterte gave birth last March 2 to baby Stonefish, her third child with husband Manases Carpio. Their other children are eight year-old Mikhaila Maria also known as Sharky and four-year old Mateo Lucas or Stingray.

The christening took place as Davao City celebrated the 80th Araw ng Dabaw yesterday, as the civic-military parade was ongoing in the city’s main thoroughfares. 

However, President Duterte was not able to make it to the baptism that was held at 10 a.m.

The President was only able to catch up at the lunch reception held at the Matina Enclaves Residences Clubhouse. 

The President was joined by his former wife Elizabeth Zimmerman and other members of the family at the reception, among them presidential son and vice mayor Paolo, their youngest brother Sebastian and the other grandchildren.

The President was seen repeatedly kissing Stonefish during the reception, showing his fondness to his 10th grandchild. 

In her Facebook page, Mayor Duterte posted her photo carrying the baby together with the President and Estrada.

Sara wrote in her FB post yesterday, “You are blessed by two Presidents, my love #3.”

“I wish him good health,” Estrada said.

Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles officiated the simple private ceremony, which was attended by the Duterte and Carpio families as well as close friends of the couple. 

Aside from Estrada, Paolo and Sebastian, the other godfathers were Waldo Carpio, Cyril Marasigan, Neil Canedo, Jacob Soriano, Charlie Tan, Elijah Manuel Pepito, Joy Lamanosa, Orlando Basilio Jr., Aaron Velasco, Jefry Tupas and Brian William Uy.

The godmothers were Janette Velasco, Darlyne Rubio, Mayjoy Ramos, Charo Rejuso-Munsayac and Joyce Domingo-Dapat. – With Jose Rodel Clapano