Malacañang Responds to Vice President Sara Duterte’s Criticism
Malacañang on Wednesday dismissed the recent tirades from Vice President Sara Duterte against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., emphasizing that the president remains focused on his leadership direction. The Palace addressed Duterte’s remarks after she urged Marcos to “look in the mirror” following his call for newly sworn-in officials to cease politicking and prioritize public service.
Palace spokesperson Claire Castro stated, “It’s only right that every person, especially a public servant, reflect and assess themselves—whether they are truly working, engaging in politics, or simply on vacation.” She highlighted that President Marcos Jr. clearly knows his priorities and expects the same from his team.
President Marcos Jr. Focuses on Direction of Leadership
Castro underlined that the president is aware of the tasks ahead and expects all public servants, particularly those within the Executive Department, to work diligently while steering clear of political games.
“President Marcos Jr. knows his direction and the work that needs to be done, and that is what he expects from all public servants, especially those under the Executive Department. His directive to us is to work and avoid engaging in politics,” Castro added.
Palace Refutes Claims of Attacks on Vice President
Addressing Duterte’s claim that she was defending herself from supposed attacks by the administration, Castro suggested she reconsider her statements. She recalled the launch of the P20 rice initiative, questioning if that really amounted to an attack on the vice president.
“Yet she criticized this project of the president, the P20 rice, along with many other things that are not even issues concerning the President or the government,” Castro remarked.
Vice President’s Current Location and Activities Highlighted
Castro also pointed out Duterte’s current stay in The Hague, Netherlands, where she is visiting former President Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court. “As of now, where was Vice President Sara Duterte when she made those statements? Where is she currently? The Hague. And based on what we know, she will be there until July 23. That’s all. Let’s remember—the president stands for action, not vacation,” Castro said.
During an interview in The Hague on July 7, Sara Duterte told President Marcos to “look at himself in the mirror” and evaluate who is truly involved in politicking, accusing the president of doing so herself.
She further confirmed she will skip Marcos’ fourth State of the Nation Address on July 28, as she will remain in the Netherlands until July 23 before heading to South Korea for a “Free Duterte Rally.”
Palace Declines Comment on Family Matters
Meanwhile, Castro refrained from commenting on former President Rodrigo Duterte’s wish to be cremated in the Netherlands, describing it as a personal family matter.
“Those are family matters so it is their decision,” the Palace official said.
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