Robes further emphasizes her support for First Lady Araneta-Marcos by pointing out the continuous attacks and disrespect that President Marcos Jr. has faced since assuming office. She believes that it is only natural for the First Lady to defend her husband and express her disappointment towards Vice President Duterte, given the relentless insults hurled at the Marcos family.
In the interview, Robes acknowledges that Araneta-Marcos’ reaction may have been delayed, but she commends her for maintaining a level of politeness and restraint in her remarks. Robes argues that the First Lady’s statement was not only factual but also based on the truth, as it was a direct response to the derogatory comments made during the rally.
Drawing a sharp contrast between the language used by Araneta-Marcos and the venomous words spoken by the Duterte family, Robes asserts that the First Lady’s honesty and integrity shine through in her statement. She believes that attending a rally that not only maligned President Marcos Jr. but also called for his removal from office was a clear violation of respect and crossed a line.
Robes also points out that despite the disagreements and differences in opinion, Araneta-Marcos has always maintained a kind and respectful demeanor towards the Vice President. However, attending a rally that sought to undermine and remove her husband from power was a step too far, and Araneta-Marcos had every right to express her disappointment.
As Robes concludes her statement of support, she calls on the public to consider the context and the continuous attacks faced by the Marcos family. She appeals for understanding and empathizes with the First Lady’s position, stating that it is only natural for her to defend her husband against the relentless barrage of insults and seditious statements. In these challenging times, Robes believes that it is crucial to stand united in support of the Marcos family and their efforts to lead the nation towards progress and development.
In response to Robes’ concerns about the double standard being applied, Malacañang issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to upholding the principles of free speech and expression for all individuals, regardless of their position or political affiliation.
The spokesperson for the President acknowledged that criticism and dissent are an integral part of a democratic society, and that the government welcomes constructive dialogue and differing opinions. They reaffirmed the President’s belief in the importance of a robust and inclusive democracy, where citizens are encouraged to voice their concerns and engage in peaceful protests.
Furthermore, the spokesperson highlighted several instances where the President himself has publicly acknowledged and respected the rights of his critics. They mentioned that during his speeches, the President has often addressed the concerns raised by the opposition, promising to take them into consideration and work towards finding common ground.
Moreover, the spokesperson emphasized that the Palace’s respectful response to the President’s critics is not just limited to public statements. They pointed out that the government has taken concrete steps to ensure that dissenting voices are heard and given a platform to express their opinions. This includes creating avenues for open dialogue and engaging with various sectors of society to address their grievances.
However, the spokesperson also clarified that while the government respects the right to freedom of expression, it does not condone any form of violence or incitement to overthrow the duly elected government. They stressed the importance of peaceful and lawful means of expressing dissent, urging individuals to exercise their rights responsibly and within the bounds of the law.
In conclusion, despite the seditious remarks made against Marcos, Malacañang has consistently demonstrated a respectful response towards the President’s critics, acknowledging their right to express their opinions freely. The government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and fostering an inclusive society is evident in its actions and policies aimed at promoting dialogue and addressing the concerns of the people.
Contextualizing the Situation
Understanding the political landscape in the Philippines is crucial to fully grasp the significance of these statements. The Marcos family has long been a prominent political dynasty in the country, with Ferdinand Marcos Sr. serving as President from 1965 to 1986. His regime was marked by allegations of corruption, human rights abuses, and the declaration of martial law.
Following the ouster of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the country went through a period of transition and sought to heal the wounds inflicted by his regime. However, the Marcos family has remained active in politics, with Ferdinand Marcos Jr. now serving as a Senator and his sister, Imee Marcos, as a Governor.
The Duterte family, on the other hand, represents a newer political force in the Philippines. President Rodrigo Duterte, known for his controversial policies and outspoken nature, took office in 2016. His daughter, Sara Duterte, is currently serving as the Vice President.
The tensions between the Marcos and Duterte families can be traced back to the 2016 Presidential election, where Sara Duterte supported the candidacy of then-Vice Presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Their alliance has since frayed, leading to the recent exchange of remarks between the two families.
It is important to note that the Philippines has a vibrant democracy, and freedom of speech is a fundamental right. However, it is equally important to ensure that this freedom is exercised responsibly and respectfully.
While political disagreements are expected, it is crucial for public figures to maintain a level of decorum and respect in their discourse. The role of the First Lady, as a representative of the President, carries a certain level of responsibility in this regard.
Robes’ support for Araneta-Marcos is not only a reflection of her personal beliefs but also highlights the need for civility and respectful dialogue in Philippine politics. It is essential for public officials to engage in constructive conversations, even when faced with criticism or differing opinions.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is important for both the Marcos and Duterte families to find common ground and work towards fostering a more harmonious political environment. The challenges facing the Philippines require unity and collaboration, rather than further division and animosity.
Moreover, the statements made by Robes and the subsequent exchange between the two families underscore the complexities of Philippine politics. The country has a long history of political dynasties, where families hold significant power and influence over the political landscape.
This dynastic system often perpetuates a sense of entitlement and competition among political families, leading to intense rivalries and power struggles. In the case of the Marcos and Duterte families, their conflicting interests and aspirations have fueled tensions and public disagreements.
However, it is important to recognize that the political landscape in the Philippines is not solely defined by these two families. There are numerous other political players, parties, and movements that contribute to the overall political discourse and governance of the country.
While the Marcos and Duterte families may dominate the headlines and public attention, it is essential to consider the voices and perspectives of other political actors. This broader perspective allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the political dynamics and complexities in the Philippines.
Furthermore, the statements made by public figures like Robes and the subsequent reactions from the Marcos and Duterte families highlight the importance of political accountability and transparency. In a democratic society, it is crucial for public officials to be held accountable for their actions and statements.
The exchange of remarks between the two families serves as a reminder that public figures are not immune from criticism and scrutiny. It is the responsibility of the media, civil society, and the general public to question and challenge those in power, ensuring that they act in the best interests of the country and its citizens.
Overall, the recent statements and exchange between the Marcos and Duterte families provide valuable insights into the intricacies of Philippine politics. They highlight the historical context, the dynamics of political dynasties, the need for responsible freedom of speech, and the importance of political accountability. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards a more inclusive and collaborative political environment.
Source: The Manila Times
