MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Friday denied Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s claim that the Marcos administration was weaponizing the law against political opponents, insisting that the government is merely enforcing existing laws and upholding transparency and accountability.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro advised the Duterte camp, particularly Vice President Sara Duterte, to answer the allegations rather than attack the Marcos administration.
"Do they want the government to do nothing, disregard the law, and allow those accused of committing crimes against the nation to escape accountability," Castro said in a statement.
"Why not answer the accusations directly instead of constantly claiming they are being politically persecuted," she added.
Castro also took a swipe at the Duterte camp by referring to the vice president's reported altercation with court personnel during the implementation of judicial orders involving his father.
"Under President Marcos Jr., power is exercised properly and in accordance with the law, unlike in the past," Castro said.
"Let us remember that punching a sheriff who was merely performing his duty is the real abuse of power," she added.
