MALACAÑANG on Tuesday defended the events organized by first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos which were held during the onslaught of Super Typhoon Uwan (international name: Fung-wong) last week. ​It said the holding of the events did not hinder any disaster response by the government. ​Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the events held at the Goldenberg Mansion in Malacañang — book launch of Philippine First Ladies' Portraits and Goldenberg Concert Series: The PCSO Vocal Ensemble — were meant to promote and recognize the talents of Filipinos and not a “mere costume party.” ​ "The events attended by the first lady were not personal parties, she did not go to a resort to swim or wear costumes like Snow White to join a party," Castro said during a press conference. ​"These were events meant to honor and uplift fellow Filipinos while the president and other Cabinet secretaries are responding to the needs of our countrymen," she added. ​Castro said the book launch was intended to "highlight, honor, and celebrate the achievements and contributions of the country’s former first ladies." ​She added that the holding of the events was an obligation the first lady has to fulfill. ​"Each has their own responsibility and obligation, so the first lady should not be criticized for her efforts to promote and recognize the talents of our people," Castro said. ​Without naming names, the Palace official also questioned whether someone who uplifts Filipinos must be criticized more than those who go on vacations and swim in resorts. ​"What she did did not interfere with the government’s assistance efforts. The president and Cabinet secretaries responded promptly and without delay," Castro said. ​"So, if these activities were carried out to uplift fellow Filipinos, there should be nothing wrong with that. What’s more concerning and worth criticizing are leaders who go on vacations without any valid reason," she added.