President Bongbong Marcos has made headlines by requesting a staggering budget of P10.6 billion for the year 2024, with a significant chunk, P1.4 billion, earmarked for “local/foreign missions and state visits.” However, this eye-popping budget proposal has sent waves through social media, reminding Filipino netizens of a past statement where Marcos expressed his disdain for economy class travel.

The proposed P1.408 billion allocation represents a jaw-dropping 58% increase from the previous year’s budget of P893.87 million. During the administration of his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, the Office of the President asked for a more modest P536.48 million for similar purposes.

For many netizens, this budget hike has resurfaced memories of an infamous interview from the controversial documentary, The Kingmaker. In the documentary, a young Bongbong Marcos was shown reminiscing about his return to the Philippines in 1991.

At the time, he found it “embarrassing” to travel in economy class, and he candidly expressed his reluctance, saying, “I remember very well buying the ticket, and I said, I can’t come home in coach. And then I said, call me a friend, I don’t have any money to buy first-class tickets. Buy me a first-class ticket. I can’t come home; I’ve always been in first class. It’s just too embarrassing!”

This unearthed interview has triggered mixed reactions among netizens, with some expressing disappointment over what they perceive as an entitled mindset. One netizen commented, “There’s no way that this man can relate to the average Filipino people,” suggesting a disconnect between the President’s experiences and the realities of the common folk. Another Redditor quipped, “This guy thinks he’s a crowned prince lol,” implying that Marcos might have a sense of royalty.

Despite the revelations, Marcos’ ardent supporters remain steadfast, seemingly unfazed by the candid display of privilege. However, many netizens are no longer surprised by the extravagant budget allocation for travel and state visits in the coming year.

Beyond the travel expenses, other areas under the Presidential Executive Staff Services Program are also witnessing budget hikes. The funds for “presidential security and close-in functions” will rise to P124.23 million in 2024, up from P91.107 million in the 2023 proposed budget. Similarly, allocations for “management of special events and internal house affairs” will increase to P293.67 million from P264.372 million, and “process and management documents for the President” will see a rise to P42.7 million from P27 million.

Marcos’ frequent international engagements have been a hallmark of his presidency. He has attended various significant events, such as the United Nations General Assembly in New York, ASEAN summits in Cambodia and Indonesia, the APEC Summit in Thailand, and the ASEAN-European Union Summit in Brussels, among others. Additionally, he has undertaken state visits to Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Malaysia, as well as an official working visit to the United States.

As the year unfolds, President Marcos has already confirmed his upcoming trip to the United States for the APEC Summit in November. The budget allocation and travel agenda continue to be focal points of public discussion, shaping perceptions of his presidency among the Filipino populace. Despite the differing opinions, one thing remains clear – the issue of budget allocation is a matter that resonates deeply with netizens and citizens alike.