12-8-2023 (MANILA) A prominent peasant group has raised objections to the extravagant 65-piece fashion show held at the Malacañang Palace on Tuesday. The event, titled “Isang Pilipinas,” took place at the Goldenberg Mansion within the Palace complex and showcased the collection of renowned fashion designer Michael Leyva. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos spearheaded the show.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Danilo Ramos, the chairperson of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, expressed discontent with the fashion show, considering the current economic challenges faced by the country. Ramos stated, “It’s inappropriate for First Lady Liza to host such a tone-deaf fashion show while the nation is burdened with debt and many have been affected by recent calamities. The prices of rice, food, and other essential commodities are on the rise.”
Ramos further criticized the First Lady’s insensitivity towards the struggles of ordinary Filipinos, drawing a parallel between the fashion show and the infamous extravagant shoe collection of Imelda Marcos, which was widely criticized for its opulence and excess. He emphasized that this event showcased the same disregard for the plight of everyday citizens.
The Department of Agriculture’s latest price monitoring report revealed that the cost of both local and imported commercial rice had reached P65 per kilo (special) as of Thursday. This surge in rice prices further compounds the financial burden on Filipino households. Notably, the Department of Agriculture is headed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Adding to the economic woes, transport groups are currently advocating for a nationwide P2 fare increase for all public utility vehicles in response to the recent spike in oil prices.
The fashion show, part of a series of fashion and cultural events, was attended by numerous lawmakers, senators, celebrities, and social elites. Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) has challenged other sectors to denounce the “extravagant” spending habits of the first family, calling for greater scrutiny and accountability.
The criticism comes at a time when the country’s economy experienced a sluggish growth rate of 4.3% during the second quarter, marking the slowest expansion since the 3.8% contraction witnessed in the first quarter of 2021. The underwhelming economic performance further underscores the need for prudent financial management and responsible government spending.
