Sen. Imee Marcos on Monday denied criticisms that government resources may have been used for the 93rd birthday celebration of her mother former First Lady Imelda Marcos, which took place at the Malacañan Palace.
The eldest sister of President Bongbong Marcos described the celebration as a simple "meryenda" that was attended by their friends and family.
"Nag-meryenda lang. Siyempre ang nanay ko 93 na, ang tatanda na nun. Kapag sinabing party, parang yugyugan e. Hindi ganun kasi they are also ancients," Imee told reporters in an ambush interview.
"But yes, we had a get-together. Very simple meryenda with a small recital of old friends and scholars," she added.
READ: Imelda Marcos Passes Family's Torch to Son Bongbong
Asked about criticisms that taxpayers' money may have been used for the gathering, Imee said: "I don't think that is the case."
"I'm sure everyone brought food as a matter of fact. It's quite funny. At tsaka libre naman lahat nung mga tumugtog. Bawal ba yun?" she added.
Imee quoted her mother saying that she was "the happiest person in the world" on her birthday.
"'Ako lang yung naging nanay ng isang presidente na dating asawa ng isang presidente at buhay pa ako.' Kaya nakakatuwa siya," Imee said, quoting her mother.
Earlier in the day, Malacañang said President Marcos will observe the limitations of the law in holding gatherings and functions inside the Palace, including those involving his family.
"We assure you that the president will adhere to law, and so that is the presumption. The president makes no directive in excess of anything that is written in the law," said Press Secretary Trxie Cruz-Angeles.
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