Marcos on Imelda’s 97th: Best mom with extraordinary life

MANILA, Philippines — Admirers view her as an embodiment of elegance while critics see her as a symbol of extravagance, but for her son, who fulfilled her dream of returning to Malacañang, former first lady Imelda Marcos is the “heart” of her family who has lived an “extraordinary life.”

In his message for Imelda’s 97th birthday, President Marcos described the former first lady as the “best mum” who continues to provide guidance to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

“You have lived an extraordinary life. One that has witnessed history, shaped our family and left an indelible mark on our nation. Through decades of public service, you touched lives in ways that continue to be remembered,” the President said in a Facebook post yesterday.

He expressed hope that God would bless his mother with many more years.

Born on July 2, 1929, Imelda was the first lady from 1965 to 1986 during the presidency of her husband, Ferdinand Marcos Sr. She also represented the second district of Ilocos Norte and Leyte’s first district in the House of Representatives.

She is out on bail after being convicted by the Sandiganbayan of seven counts of graft. She and her husband are accused of amassing billions of dollars in ill-gotten wealth during their two decades in power.