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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday wished more blessings for his mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, who is marking her 97th birthday. Bongbong Marcos/Facebook
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday wished more blessings for his mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, who is marking her 97th birthday.
In a message posted on social media, Marcos noted that his mother is “blessed with the gift of celebrating 97 years… surrounded by children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren who continue to draw strength from [her] love and guidance.”
“You have lived an extraordinary life. One that has witnessed history, shaped our family and left an indelible mark on our nation,” the President said.
“May God continue to bless you with many more years surrounded by the family who loves you dearly.”
The former first lady is among the most controversial figures in Philippine politics.
She rose to fame as a pageant titlist before marrying Ferdinand Marcos Sr., who eventually became the Philippines’ 10th President.
During Marcos Sr.’s rule, Mrs. Marcos was hailed both as a key diplomatic figure and a symbol of excessive spending as she traveled the world to meet world leaders on behalf of her husband.
The term “Imeldific” — which means extravagant and excessive — was coined after Mrs. Marcos after she drew headlines for throwing lavish parties and building a shoe collection spanning thousands of pairs.
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