Bongbong Marcos Faces Fresh Criticism Over Singapore F1 Attendance During Working Visit
BONGBONG MARCOS – Another Singapore F1 Grand Prix appearance is on President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s schedule, with the Palace defending his attendance as part of broader efforts to engage with business leaders and investors.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to attend the Singapore Grand Prix once again as part of his five-day working visit to the city-state, with Malacañang explaining that the international sporting event also provides opportunities to meet business executives and potential investors.
Palace press officer Claire Castro confirmed on Friday that Marcos would watch the Formula 1 (F1) race following an invitation from Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
“He will attend,” Castro said during a press briefing, addressing renewed criticism surrounding the President’s planned appearance at the prestigious motorsport event.
Marcos previously attended the Singapore Grand Prix in 2022 and 2023, during the first two years of his presidency. His participation in the upcoming race has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and civil society groups, who have questioned the appropriateness of attending a high-profile sporting event while many Filipinos continue to struggle with rising living costs and economic difficulties. Critics have also raised concerns linked to controversies surrounding the Marcos family’s wealth and displays of luxury during the administration of his late father.
Castro, however, emphasized that the gathering involves more than watching the race, noting that discussions and professional engagements also take place during the event.
Marcos cites business opportunities
In an interview with The Straits Times published on Oct. 8, Marcos described the timing of the Grand Prix and his business engagements as a “happy coincidence.”
He explained that the race has become a major international gathering that attracts business leaders, making it convenient for companies and organizations to arrange conferences and meetings around the event.
According to Marcos, the opportunity to establish connections and exchange ideas is one potential benefit of attending.
“Because of the contacts that you make and the discussions that you have,” he told The Straits Times.
The President added that these conversations do not necessarily happen at the racetrack, as some meetings are arranged at other locations throughout Singapore.
He also recalled attending the Grand Prix before becoming President, when he met Singapore’s founding prime minister, Lee Kuan Yew, along with business executives, including Filipinos.
Marcos said he would watch portions of the race whenever his schedule permitted.
Palace defends presidential duties
Asked whether the latest criticism had reached Marcos, Castro acknowledged that negative reactions were expected but maintained that the President continued carrying out his responsibilities during overseas trips.
“Not for a minute, not for a second, does Ferdinand Marcos Jr. cease being President,’’ she stressed.
Marcos’ working visit began on Oct. 7 and is scheduled to conclude on Oct. 11. The Singapore Grand Prix weekend runs from Oct. 9 to 11 at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, with the main race scheduled for Sunday.
His itinerary includes the Forbes Global CEO Conference, a visit to the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute, and bilateral meetings with Wong.
At the Forbes conference, Marcos discussed investment opportunities, technology, anti-corruption initiatives, and Philippine interests in the West Philippine Sea, Castro said.
The President also met with FedEx representatives to discuss the company’s Philippine operations, including the planned expansion of its Clark Gateway Hub in Pampanga, which is expected to be completed in late 2028.
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