Funding for Marcos’ Singapore trip ‘irrelevant’ — Bersamin

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Tuesday defended President Bongbong Marcos over his trip to Singapore to watch the Formula 1 Grand Prix last weekend.

"He was still performing his job as President when he was abroad, although that is not an official state visit," Bersamin told reporters in an interview.

"He met there with many people who were very relevant to our business activities or the running of our government here, whether it was a fully paid trip or not is irrelevant," he added.

The Little President averred that the cost of the trip should not be a concern as Marcos was performing his duties as Chief Executive after all.

He also argued that there was nothing wrong if public funds have been used to fund the trip of the President and his entourage.

"If public funds were spent, walang problema diyan, kasi that was also a trip undertaken for the interest of the Philippines," he said.

When asked why the trip was unannounced compared to the previous foreign trips of the President, Bersamin stressed that it was part of "security" measures.

"Baka mamaya abangan siya sa Singapore," he told the media.

The former Chief Justice disagreed that the President violated Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees when he watched the much-awaited international racing.

The law mandated public officials and employees and their families to "lead modest lives appropriate to their positions and income."

"What is immodest about it? Baka libre pa nga 'yun. I don't think he bothered anyone, but he must have been invited there. His presence there might have added some suspense, some intrigue, and importance to that event," he claimed.

"Alam niyo our President naging matinee idol na. His presence in an event like that would be well-appreciated and it might have attracted more audience, audience-wise. It's not immodest, it's not contrary to morals," he added.

The President was accompanied by his wife First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, son Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos, and cousin House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Also spotted in the event were Cavite 7th District Representative Aniela Tolentino and actress Alexa Miro, rumored girlfriend of the President's eldest son.