Metro Manila, Philippines – Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro belatedly greeted Vice President Sara Duterte on her 48th birthday, using a visual that referenced Ramil Madriaga.
During a press briefing on Monday, June 1, Castro said, “Happy birthday, VP Sara,” while holding up a printed photo of the vice president.
The image appeared to mimic a previous birthday greeting made by Duterte, but with Madriaga’s name crossed out. The photo was used during the House of Representative’s confirmation hearing to establish Madriaga’s connection with Duterte.
Madriaga, who identified himself as Duterte’s former aide and alleged bagman, earlier said funds from illegal sources backed a political campaign linked to the vice president. Duterte has denied this.
The altered image appeared to allude to Duterte’s earlier birthday greeting for Madriaga.
Duterte celebrated her birthday on May 31. She faces a looming impeachment trial at the Senate.
