By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
Malacañang opened its gates to thousands of Filipinos on Monday as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. celebrated his 69th birthday with a “salo-salo” (get together) that brought the traditional Filipino gathering beyond the Palace grounds and into communities across the country.
For the President, the occasion was less about a formal birthday celebration and more about sharing a meal, meeting Filipinos and thanking them for their support.
Over 9,000 guests were welcomed to Malacañang for the annual “Salo-Salo sa Palasyo,” while simultaneous gatherings were held in 90 satellite locations nationwide.
President Marcos Jr. spent time at the Kalayaan Grounds greeting guests and mingling with participants after a brief program marking his birthday.
“Thank you for all you’ve done to support me and the work that we are doing,” Marcos told the crowd.
The Palace said the gathering draws from the Filipino tradition of “salo-salo,” sharing food in goodwill and camaraderie, and reflects the President’s commitment to making Malacañang an accessible and welcoming space for Filipinos.
The guests represented different sectors, including persons with disabilities, senior citizens, public school students, supporters, vloggers and personnel of the Office of the President.
Beyond the capital, the celebration was simultaneously brought to Filipinos in 90 locations through livestreamed activities.
In Cebu, Gov. Pam Baricuatro conveyed her birthday greetings to the President and thanked him for his support to the province, particularly after it was struck by a powerful earthquake and typhoon in late 2025 and earlier this year.
The celebration featured food tents, cultural performances and other activities before the Chief Executive went around the venue to personally greet and interact with guests.
The President, born on Sept. 13, 1957, turned 69 this year.
His birthday gathering came a day after he spoke about his personal wishes during a media briefing in New Delhi, India, where he said he hoped to see more of his family, including his children and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, while also wishing to lay the groundwork for government reforms that would continue beyond his administration.
