Mayor Michael Marcos Keon responded to Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc’s speech at the Daklisan Festival, calling the venue and content inappropriate and politically motivated. Allegedly, the governor implied Keon was self-centered, a liar, and a gossip monger on Tuesday, 28 January.

Keon countered by highlighting infrastructure projects in Metro La Paz since 2019, emphasizing his administrative achievements. He expressed disappointment over family discord and questioned why his relatives support him yet tear him down.

“That’s why I’m sitting here. I never asked to be here. My family brought me here, just as they brought me to the position of governor in Ilocos Norte. Why do they build me up, then tear me down? They say I’m matigas ang ulo, they say I’m quarrelsome. I had to defend myself and my honor against lies. My relatives are not my enemy — we share the same DNA.

Sana, but I already know things cannot be worked out. I will just have to make laban and continue my work. Inshallah, what will happen will happen.” Michael Marcos Keon says.