President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has not spoken with his sister, Senator Imee Marcos, for nearly three years, according to Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro.

Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Castro said the President confirmed the prolonged lack of communication between him and his elder sister, following the senator’s recent remarks describing their relationship as “non-existent.”

“[I] asked about this comment or statement of his sister, Senator Imee Marcos. And he said, ‘Yes, they haven’t spoken for almost three years. She has not been attending family gatherings, family events,” Castro told reporters.

Castro added that Marcos agreed with his sister’s characterization of their relationship, acknowledging the current state of estrangement between them.

The Palace official also said the President appeared disappointed when asked about the matter, noting his reaction and body language during their conversation.

“Bago kasi siya sumagot ay pinag-isipan niya talaga sa aking paningin sa kanyang body language, disappointed siya sa kanyang mga nadidinig na mga salita mula sa kanyang kapatid,” Castro said.

Despite the apparent rift, Castro emphasized that the President harbors no ill feelings toward the senator.

“Tanungin niyo po siguro si Senator Imee diyan dahil sa pangulo po ay wala po siyang masamang anumang damdamin sa kanyang nakatatandang kapatid,” she said when asked about the reason behind the prolonged silence between the siblings.