In a recent statement, Vice President Sara Duterte expressed her disappointment with the treatment she has received from “some sectors” within President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s circle. While she has not discussed this issue with her brother, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, she believes that his call for the President to resign stems from a place of brotherly love and the shared sentiment that she does not deserve such despicable treatment.
Despite the challenges she faces, Vice President Duterte remains confident in her ability to work and thrive in a chaotic environment. She is determined to stay true to her responsibilities as both the vice president and the secretary of the Department of Education, unless instructed otherwise by the President.
Mayor Duterte made his call for the President’s resignation during a speech at a leaders’ forum. However, leaders of the House of Representatives have dismissed this call as baseless and disrespectful. House Deputy Speaker David “Jayjay” Suarez commended the President’s performance over the past two years, highlighting his management of the economy and commitment to the Filipino people.
Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. emphasized the importance of respecting the Office of the President. He questioned the basis for the call to resign and expressed his support for President Marcos.
Not all lawmakers share the same opinion, though. Rizal 1st District Rep. Michael John Duavit disagreed with Mayor Duterte’s call for resignation, asserting that everyone has the right to express their opinion. However, Deputy Speaker Suarez reiterated the House’s unwavering commitment and support for the President.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, who is Marcos’ first cousin, urged the Duterte family to show respect for the President and his family. He described Marcos as hardworking and dedicated to improving the lives of Filipinos.
Vice President Duterte expressed her gratitude to her supporters during a prayer rally in Davao City. She thanked them for their unwavering support and acknowledged the opportunity her family has had to serve in government for the past six years under former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.
In another statement, the vice president called on Filipinos to stand against alleged attempts to change the Constitution through a people’s initiative. She expressed concerns about the exchange of money and signatures for this purpose. Former congressman Alfredo Garbin Jr. defended the people’s initiative, stating that individuals were not forced to sign the petition and that no threats or false information were used. He emphasized the transparency of their actions and the efforts made to ensure that people understood the goals of the initiative.
In conclusion, Vice President Sara Duterte’s criticism of the treatment she has received from President Marcos Jr.’s circle highlights the tensions within the political landscape. While some lawmakers dismiss the call for the President’s resignation, others express their support for him. As the vice president continues to fulfill her duties, she remains grateful for the support she receives from her supporters and emphasizes the importance of standing against questionable practices in the political sphere.
Source: The Manila Times
