Palace Criticizes Sara Duterte’s ‘Not Pro Any Country’ Remarks
MANILA, Philippines — The heated exchange between Vice President Sara Duterte and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro escalated on Friday as Castro challenged Duterte’s patriotism by quoting the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. The phrase “not pro any country at all” sparked sharp responses, highlighting tensions over national loyalty.
During a press briefing, Castro was asked to react to Duterte’s statement that she is “not pro any country at all.” In response, Castro recalled, “Sabi nga po ni Dr. Jose Rizal, ‘Ang hindi marunong magmahal sa sariling wika ay masahol pa sa hayop at malansang isda’.” (As Dr. Jose Rizal once said, ‘He who does not love his own language is worse than a beast and a foul-smelling fish.’)
She added, “So what more can be said about a Filipino and a leader who admits they do not love their own country—what might they smell like, then? That’s all.” Castro emphasized that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. proudly stands as a pro-Philippines leader committed to defending the nation’s sovereignty.
Defending the Nation’s Honor and Territory
“The President stands tall and proudly declares that he is pro-Philippines. He said he will not yield even an inch of our territory. A true Filipino sings ‘Lupang Hinirang’ with dignity and speaks the words, ‘To die for you,’” Castro stated firmly.
Earlier, Castro dismissed Duterte’s criticism of the Marcos administration’s foreign policy. “The president said: ‘We expect that from the Dutertes because they are pro-China,’ and the president is pro-Philippines,” she remarked during a briefing last Tuesday.
Vice President Duterte Fires Back
Duterte quickly responded to Castro’s comments. In an interview on Wednesday, she accused the Palace of promoting a pro-China narrative for some time. “I’m not pro any country at all,” Duterte reiterated.
She has also faced criticism for her silence regarding the West Philippine Sea disputes. Over the weekend, Duterte broke her silence for the first time, criticizing President Marcos’ decision to allow the United States to deploy missiles in the country. She claimed this move only antagonizes China.
The verbal clash highlights the divisive debates surrounding patriotism and foreign policy in the Philippines. Castro’s invocation of Rizal’s famous quote underscores the importance of national pride, while Duterte’s stance reflects a more nuanced position on international alliances.
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