MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Friday rejected Vice President Sara Duterte’s call for government officials to stop engaging in politics and advancing their own interests, saying the latter has done "nothing" to promote the country’s development.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Marcos administration remained focused on governance while transparency, accountability, and adherence to constitutional processes continue to guide the government.
"President Marcos Jr. remains focused on maintaining peace and order and advancing the country’s development. The President continues to work tirelessly even as the Vice President has been more frequently on vacation and traveling abroad," Castro said in a statement.
"What has the Vice President contributed to the President’s efforts to promote peace and order and the country’s development? None," she added.
The Palace official said it is Duterte’s duty as vice president to answer the allegations being raised against her, saying that the ongoing impeachment process is provided for under the Constitution.
"Why should we stop promoting transparency and accountability? These are part of the mandate and duty of every public servant. As vice president, it is her responsibility to answer the allegations against her. Concealing the truth about these matters is a betrayal of the public trust," Castro said.
"VP Sara should instead be telling her allies to stop engaging in political maneuvering and spreading fake news to undermine President Marcos Jr. and his administration in an effort to install her as President even before 2028," she added.
