Bongbong Marcos Jokingly Pokes Fun at Gatchalian’s Love Life

Bongbong Marcos Lightheartedly Teases Gatchalian About His Love Life

BONGBONG MARCOS – During a public event, Bongbong Marcos jokingly poked fun at Gatchalian’s love life, sparking laughter from the audience.



During the 74th anniversary celebration of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shared a humorous moment with DSWD officials and employees. In a playful exchange, he teased DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian about his lack of a love life, which amused the audience.

In his speech, Marcos praised the agency’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), which equips Filipinos with skills and resources to improve their financial stability. With a witty remark, he jokingly suggested that Gatchalian, 46, might need a “Sustainable Lovelife Program” instead.

Bongbong Marcos 1
Photo Source: Abogado

He clarified in a lighthearted manner that the SLP was not meant to solve romantic issues. “This doesn’t mean ‘Sustainable Lovelife Program,’ OK? Someone might ask, ‘Sir, is there training for hearts that always lose?’ You know, those – those personalities without a significant other (jowa). Just like your secretary,” Marcos joked in Filipino, prompting laughter from the audience.

Continuing the banter, the President quipped that Gatchalian was too dedicated to work to have time for romance. However, he went on to commend Gatchalian and the entire DSWD team for their unwavering commitment, highlighting how they are available even in the early hours of the morning.

“All of you—the Secretary, the Undersecretaries—whenever I call, even at three in the morning, you answer. I wonder if you even get any sleep,” Marcos remarked, recognizing their hard work.

Rex Gatchalian 1
Photo Source: Manila Standard

Aside from the SLP, Marcos also emphasized the impact of other DSWD programs, including the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens, and the Quick Response Fund (QRF). He noted that over four million households benefited from the 4Ps in the past year, while 270,000 households received assistance through the SLP in 2024. Additionally, 4.28 million elderly individuals received support from the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens, and over 7.4 million families benefited from the QRF.

The event concluded with Marcos expressing his appreciation for the DSWD’s continuous efforts and reaffirming the government’s dedication to improving social welfare and development in the country.