Liza tells President Marcos: You’re the calm in our chaos

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos was peppered with praises by his wife First Lady Liza Marcos and their children yesterday as they thanked him for his presence and guidance during the celebration of Father’s Day.

In an Instagram post, Liza called the President the “calm” in their chaos and the “heart” of their home.

“Today, we celebrate the man our children look up to… and the husband I still look at with love (and occasional exasperation). Love you forever,” she declared.

Marcos’ eldest son, Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos, thanked him for everything he has done for the country and for their family, including his constant guidance.

“It’s an honor for me to learn from you on a daily basis. And thank you for everything that you do for the country, and for standing up for what you believe is right. For being resolute in the face of adversity. And I hope that despite your busy, busy schedule that you can at least hopefully find some time to rest,” the lawmaker said in a video posted on the President’s YouTube vlog.

“I couldn’t ask for a better dad. I couldn’t ask for a better mentor. And I couldn’t ask for anyone better than you to work with. So, thank you for imparting your wisdom to me,” he added.

Simon, his second son, said the President is the best possible father he could ever have.

“Thank you so much for being there. I couldn’t have gone anywhere without you. I love you so much. And I hope you are having the best Father’s Day possible. Love you to bits,” he said.

Marcos’ youngest son Vincent said the President demonstrates all five love languages – words of affirmation, quality time, gifts, acts of service and physical touch.

“My dad always told me, pikon, talo (the spoilsport always loses) so don’t let other people’s emotions get in the way of what you’re trying to do and what you believe in,” he said.

Vincent said his favorite bonding moment with his father is spending time doing something with him.

“Happy Father’s Day, pop. Thanks for always being there for me. And thanks for being someone that I can always look up to. Love you, pop,” the President’s youngest son said.

VP Sara: We recognize your sacrifice

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte yesterday thanked all fathers for their strength.

“Today, we recognize your sacrifice, hard work and immeasurable love,” she said in a statement.

“For every father that continues to fight, serve and tirelessly establish their family despite hardships – I wish for your victory,” she added.

The Vice President spent her 47th birthday on March 31 with her father, Rodrigo Duterte in The Hague. The former president is being detained by the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity.

In an interview with News5 on Saturday, the Vice President thanked her father for putting a premium on her education.

“He invested a lot on my education and I give back all my thanks to former president Rodrigo Duterte,” she said.

‘Silent heroes’

For his part, Speaker Martin Romualdez described Filipino fathers as silent heroes who are “the foundation of our families and the heart of our communities.”

“This Father’s Day, I honor the quiet strength and everyday heroism of Filipino fathers. These are the men who rise each morning with a single goal in mind: to build a better life for their children,” he said in a statement.

“As a father, I know the deep responsibility that comes with that role. I understand the long days, the sleepless nights, and the unwavering hope we carry for our families. I have felt the joy of small moments with my children and the worry that comes with every challenge they face,” he added.

Romualdez also reflected on the influence of his own father, whose example of humility, service and patriotism, he said, continues to guide his work in public service.