President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. recently returned to Cebu to provide assistance to victims of Typhoon Tino, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to the region's recovery efforts.
Presidential Engagement in Cebu
During his November 8, 2025 visit, many observers noted President Marcos's simple and approachable demeanor as he interacted with Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro and various city mayors. His unpretentious style and ordinary manner of engaging with others stood out to those present at the gatherings.
The presidential visit prompted reflections from someone with unique insight into how Philippine leaders conduct themselves - a former manager of the Very Important Persons (VIP) and Most Important Persons (MIP) Lounges at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA).
Presidential Personalities Through the Years
According to the former airport VIP manager, Corazon "Tita Cory" Aquino stood out as the most humble among the presidents she encountered. Her personality was described as quiet, with a respectful voice and calm disposition that distinguished her leadership style.
In contrast, the late Fidel V. Ramos was remembered as the most sociable chief executive. He would frequently greet people, shake hands, and even joke around. The manager recalled one particular instance where Ramos put his arm around their colleague Maritess Balubar in a friendly manner that suggested youthful camaraderie.
Joseph "Erap" Estrada apparently caused some confusion among the airport staff, despite his generally good-natured personality. On one memorable occasion, after accommodating him and his First Lady, former Senator Loi Estrada, in the VIP Room, the staff received a request for another special room for a different woman who also claimed to be the First Lady.
Multilingual Leaders and Informal Encounters
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo earned recognition as the most linguistically versatile president. While conducting official business in English, she would suddenly switch to Kapampangan when directing her aides. She would also speak to staff in Cebuano and even use Hiligaynon with her bodyguard. On another occasion, she was observed conversing with a foreigner in Spanish.
Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III maintained a notably informal style during his airport visits. He typically wore polo shirts, smiled frequently, and created an atmosphere where staff felt comfortable asking for photographs. Upon arriving at the VIP Room, he would immediately head to the Smoking Area at the back, where he would secretly smoke while taking telephone interviews.
The VIP manager had already changed jobs during President Rodrigo Duterte's administration but still met him during the inauguration of MCIA Terminal 2. She described Duterte as having the demeanor of an "old buddy," especially since he kept mentioning the late Pilita Corrales during their conversation.
As the former airport manager reflected, presidents come and go, but each leaves behind unforgettable memories that continue to shape how Filipinos remember their leaders. These personal encounters at Mactan-Cebu International Airport provide unique insights into the human side of the nation's highest officials.
