Former, current gov’t officials heap praises on “hard-working, dedicated” Duterte as he marks his 74th birthday

(Eagle News)—–Praises from current and former government officials poured in for President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, March 28, as he marked his 74th birth anniversary.

“Your perseverance and dedication for our nation continue to inspire us all,” Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said.

He said he wished “that each and every Filipino will see how hard you work for them and that they will understand how much you really love our country and our people.”

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra had the same wish.

“I wish that the people will understand better that everything he does as father of the nation, while not to the liking of some people, is motivated only by love of country and genuine concern for the welfare of future generations of Filipinos,” he said.

Former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque congratulated the President for the “continuing support of the Filipino nation” to his leadership, the “best gift,” he said, that a leader could ask for.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año described Duterte’s leadership as “sterling.”

“His passion and dedication to solve all problems besetting our country is truy an inspiration for all of us to give our best,” Año said, as he wished the chief executive good health.

Former Special Assistant to the President Bong Go had the same wish for the chief executive.

“My wish for you is to live longer so that you can enjoy and appreciate the positive changes you’ve done for our country. May you be filled with more of life’s blessings in return for all the sacrifices you’ve made for the betterment of the lives of every Filipino,” he said.

He also thanked Duterte, who he considers his mentor, “for teaching me that the way to succeed is to put others first before one’s self.”

“Maraming salamat rin po sa tiwala at sa pagkakataong ibinigay ninyo para makapagserbisyo kami ng lubos sa kapwa namin. Ipinapangako ko na hanggang sa huling hininga ng aking buhay ay hindi ko kayo iiwan,” he said.

Medialdea also assured the President Cabinet officials had his back.

“Iba ka, saludo ako sa iyo Sir! Happy Birthday and many more!” Medialdea said.

“Kasama ng kapwa kong Pilipino, kami ay bumabati ng maligayang kaarawan! Mahal po namin kayo, Tatay Digong,” Go added.