The First Lady of incoming Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte also has her own spotlight, raking up a lot of historic firsts.
This will be the first time a politician will be taking office as president separated from his wife. It will also be the first time he will be publicly seen with a common-law wife.
The 46-year-old Honeylet Avancena, who has been Duterte’s domestic partner for 20 years, is largely acknowledged as his inconspicuous combat throughout the campaign season. Should she be First Lady (though Duterte has said his daughter Sara will be First Lady), this will be the first time a First Lady will not come from high society.
READ MORE : Duterte in the eyes of common-law wife Honeylet Avanceña
Avancena, who met Duterte while she was a nurse in the United States, used to be an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). She was described as a straightforward woman who found herself thrown in the spotlight when Duterte aimed for the presidency.
Not much is known about Avancena except for the fact she worked for four years in California. Due to her former work as a nurse, her closeness to the president makes her an influential health-care policy adviser. It also makes it possible for Avancena to advance the nursing profession.
Avancena said her idea of a First Lady is someone who is more familiar with the needs of the people.
Other issues Avancena can take on are starting anti-drug campaigns and sex education campaigns in school.
Source : GMANews
