Duterte defends granddaughter Isabelle's Palace photoshoot

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte has defended the pre-debut photo shoot of his granddaughter Isabelle at Malacañang, calling it a “small matter.”  

The photoshoot of Isabelle, daughter of the President’s eldest son Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, has drawn flak, with critics questioning why she was allowed to pose with the presidential seal in the background. 

Supporters of the President defended the photoshoot, saying everyone who visited Malacañang also took photos of themselves with the seal. Presidential spokesman Harry Roque claimed no taxpayer money was used during the photoshoot.  

“Ano ba naman ‘yan? Kadugo ko ‘yan eh (What’s the fuss? She is part of my family). Small matter, gamitin lang ‘yung Malacañang. Wala naman ako doon (They just used Malacañang. I was not there),” the President said. 

“But even if I was there, my granddaughter had a photoshoot, all visitors who go there took photos,” he added.  

The photoshoot has spawned the parody account “Malacañang Events and Catering Services,” which took a jab at the private events held at the country’s seat of power. These events include the welcoming celebration of the daughter of actor Robin Padilla and television host Mariel Padilla and the birthday party of Marinduque Rep. Allan Velasco.

READ: Isabelle Duterte’s Palace photoshoot gives birth to hilarious internet meme