A message allegedly painted on a wall along a Metro Manila road has caught the attention of social media users, raising questions about whether the beautification efforts for the ASEAN Summit are presenting the country’s actual conditions—or merely covering up problems that Filipinos continue to face.
The image, shared by the Facebook page Hustle Over Salary, shows the words: “WELCOME DELEGATES, SA LIKOD NITONG SIGN AY POVERTY AT MARUMING ILOG.” While some users argued that the message should have been written entirely in English so foreign delegates could understand it, others said its intended audience may not necessarily be the visiting officials, but the government and the Filipino public.
Mico Abas pointed out that the message was more about public dissatisfaction with the beautification efforts than communicating directly with foreign delegates. He said the display reflected how some Filipinos view the preparations as putting a “blanket” over the realities of Manila rather than addressing them.
However, the authenticity and actual location of the alleged vandalism have yet to be independently established. It remains unclear whether the image shows a real incident or digitally generated or altered content.
Mark George Benaid, meanwhile, expressed approval, commenting, “Saludo sa gumawa nito.” Another netizen also appeared to welcome the message, saying, “Kung tinutoo nyo yan!! Hahaha.”
On November 12, the Palace defended the P22.9-billion budget for the 2026 ASEAN Summit, saying critics should focus on what the government has achieved rather than what it has spent.###