Ricky Martin Live

Senate President Escudero defends ‘gentlemanly’ act in viral video with First Lady

Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero addressed the circulation of a video online showing First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos grabbing his wine glass during the Vin d’Honneur celebrating the 126th Anniversary of Philippine Independence at Malacañang Palace.

When asked about the incident, Escudero stated, “I consider waiting on a lady (first or otherwise) to be gentlemanly.” He continued, “Maaaring sabihin ng iba na maka-luma o parang ‘under’ pero para sa’kin, hindi kailanman magiging maka-luma o di uso, ano man ang itawag ng iba, ang pagiging maginoo at pakikipag-kapwa tao.” (Others may say that it is old-fashioned, but for me, being a gentleman will never be unfashionable.)

The video, posted on X (formerly Twitter), also featured notable figures such as President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., Speaker Martin Romualdez, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

The event was attended by at least 84 diplomats and dignitaries.