VP Sara Duterte Publicly Criticizes President Bongbong Marcos
SARA DUTERTE – The Vice President of the Republic of the Philippines publicly criticized President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., claiming he lacks the necessary skills to govern the country effectively.
At a press conference in Mandaluyong City, she asserted, “Hindi marunong maging Presidente ang nakaupo,” stating that this was her reason for resigning from the Department of Education (DepEd). She expressed her discontent with what she observed and heard while in the administration, which led to her departure.
Duterte further emphasized her belief that the country lacks a true leader, saying, “Kung presidente niyo siya, okay lang. Ako, hanggang Number Two lang itong bansa na ito, wala itong Number 1 para sa akin.”
During the same press conference, Duterte elaborated on how she became Marcos’ running mate in the 2022 elections. She explained that it was Sen. Imee Marcos, the President’s sister, who encouraged her to run for vice president to create a formidable team against then-Vice President Leni Robredo, who was considered Marcos’ strongest rival.
Duterte recalled Sen. Marcos stressing the importance of garnering support from the Visayas, saying, “We would lose to Leni if we couldn’t bring in the Bisaya.” This conversation occurred in late 2021. Ultimately, Duterte expressed feelings of being used by Marcos, reflecting her disillusionment with the political alliance they formed.
Malacañang has yet to respond to Duterte’s remarks.
To recall, in a brief interview at the House of Representatives, Vice President Sara Duterte stated that she will “never” collaborate again with the Marcoses in future elections. Duterte noted that they did not start as friends and only became acquainted when they ran together. The two have yet to meet personally since her resignation as Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), which is now being led by Sonny Angara.