UNDERSECRETARY of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Claire Castro said it is Vice President Sara Duterte who failed to demonstrate true professionalism, in response to her statement that a Palace press officer should be professional in what she says.
“Claire Castro is a spokesperson for the president and the Office of the President.... Given that you are a spokesperson and the seal of the Office of the President is displayed there, you ought to be professional in what you say,” Duterte said in Filipino in an interview.
Castro retorted, saying that being a true professional is seen in action, not just in words.
“A professional leader follows the law and does not resort to violence, and faces accusations using clear evidence instead of avoiding or ignoring the administration. A true leader helps to lead and does not become a reason for the fall of the government. If these observations are tested, the vice president lacks in showing true professionalism and responsibility to the public,” Castro said in a video message.
Castro stressed that the PCO's mandate is countering disinformation and setting the record straight. She added that her responsibility as a Palace press officer is to inform the public about administration programs and challenge false claims against the president.
Castro noted that the Palace only responds to baseless allegations when supported by concrete evidence.
