First Lady Liza Marcos addresses criticism over viral video
“We both had a good laugh over that.” This was First Lady Liza Marcos’ response to criticisms regarding a viral video where she was seen taking Senate President Francis Escudero’s wine glass and drinking from it during the vin d’honneur at Malacañang on Independence Day.
In a statement shared on social media by radio station dzRH, Liza gave her account of what happened during the annual reception for diplomats. Malacañang has not issued a statement on the matter yet.
The viral clip, extracted from a Radio Television Malacañang video, was circulated on social media, making the Senate President a top trending topic.
Liza began her statement by sharing the sequence of events that occurred. She explained that after greeting 82 ambassadors and other international organization representatives for over an hour, she and President Marcos entered the Palace’s ceremonial hall, where they were led to where Escudero and Speaker Martin Romualdez were situated.
“When Chiz saw me, he said, ‘Wow bilib din ako sa ’yo,’ may energy ka pa (Wow, you still have energy) after standing and smiling for over an hour.’ Sabi niya (He said), ‘I’m sure you could use a drink,’” Liza recounted, referring to Escudero by his nickname.
The first lady laughed and responded to Escudero’s offer by jokingly taking his champagne glass, taking a sip, and remarking, “Eww hindi naman malamig ang champagne (Eww, your champagne is not even cold).” She then returned the glass to him, and they shared a laugh over the playful exchange.
Liza clarified that the whole interaction lasted just 10 seconds and emphasized her long-standing friendship with Escudero since their law school days.
Following the resignation of Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, Escudero assumed the Senate presidency last month. Some social media users criticized the incident, accusing the first lady of being impolite or exerting unnecessary power.
Escudero dismissed the criticism, stating, “I consider waiting on a lady (first or otherwise) to be gentlemanly.” He emphasized the importance of being gentlemanly and sociable, regardless of others’ perceptions.
Overall, the playful exchange between Liza Marcos and Senate President Escudero was quickly put to rest, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and friendship in social interactions.
