Senator Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos has revealed that Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte has personally apologized to her for his recent remarks demanding the resignation of her brother, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., for being “lazy.” The senator shared this information during a chance interview when asked to comment on the mayor’s rants against the President during a rally in Davao City on January 21.
In response to the mayor’s comments, Senator Marcos expressed her disbelief, stating, “That’s crazy. That’s all I can say.” However, she later clarified that Mayor Duterte approached her and “apologized profusely” for his words. When asked about the conversation, Senator Marcos explained, “I asked him, ‘Hey, what was that? Why did you say those things?’ And he said, ‘Sorry, sorry.’ But I understand [him].”
The senator further elaborated on her understanding, highlighting the emotional aspect of the situation. She explained that Mayor Duterte’s strong reaction stemmed from the possibility of his father being jailed and his eldest sister allegedly facing harsh treatment. By contextualizing the situation, Senator Marcos aimed to shed light on the emotional turmoil that may have influenced the mayor’s remarks.
Vice President Sara Duterte, the sister of Mayor Duterte, also weighed in on the issue through a Facebook post on January 29. She expressed that her brother’s comments were driven by “brotherly love coupled by the common sentiment that I do not deserve the despicable treatment that I am receiving from some sectors within the circle of the President.” Vice President Duterte’s statement further emphasizes the personal nature of the controversy and the family dynamics at play.
It is worth noting that there have been reports suggesting that the International Criminal Court (ICC) might issue a warrant of arrest against former president Rodrigo Duterte in connection with his controversial war on drugs. While this information is not directly related to the apology made by Mayor Duterte, it provides additional context to the tense political climate in the Philippines.
The incident between Mayor Duterte and Senator Marcos serves as a reminder of the complex relationships and emotions that can arise within political families. It highlights the importance of understanding the personal factors that can influence public statements and actions. By sharing the details of the apology, Senator Marcos aims to demonstrate the willingness of individuals to acknowledge and rectify their words when emotions run high.
In conclusion, Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte’s apology to Senator Imee Marcos sheds light on the personal dynamics within political families. Senator Marcos’s understanding of Mayor Duterte’s emotional state and her acceptance of his apology exemplify the importance of empathy and forgiveness in political discourse. This incident serves as a reminder that even in the midst of heated political debates, acknowledging and rectifying one’s words can help foster understanding and reconciliation.
Source: The Manila Times
