MALACAÑANG on Wednesday dismissed claims of Vice President Sara Duterte that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was engaged in politicking, saying the Chief Executive was doing his job and not vacationing.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro issued the statement after Duterte advised Marcos to “look in the mirror” after he called on newly sworn-in national and local officials to “stop politicking” and focus on serving their constituents.
Speaking to reporters, Castro agreed that all public officials must truly assess themselves to see whether they are doing their job or just politicking or going on vacations.
“President Marcos Jr. knows his direction. He knows the work that needs to be done, and that is what he expects from all public servants, especially those under the executive department. His directive to us is to work and avoid politicking,” Castro said during a press conference.
“It is only right that every person, especially public servants, should reflect and assess themselves whether they are truly working, politicking or just on vacation,” she added.
Castro said the administration’s focus remained on delivering essential services to Filipinos, citing recent initiatives led by Marcos as proof of his dedication to governance.
“Just earlier, the President spearheaded the distribution of 387 ambulances to various local government units across the country,” she said.
“You’ve also seen how he continues to support the agriculture and fisheries sectors, ensuring that farmers and fisherfolk benefit from government aid,” she added.
The Palace official said that Marcos “does not waste time when it comes to helping the people,” adding that “work is truly what’s on his mind.”
Castro called on the vice president to also review her statements, insisting that the President was not the one throwing attacks.
“She said she was just reacting to attacks from the Marcos administration. But was the launch of the P20-rice project an attack against her?” Castro said.
“Yet she criticized it, along with several other programs of the administration that have nothing to do with her office,” she added.
Without elaborating further on Duterte’s trip, Castro drew a contrast between the vice president’s overseas stay and the President’s local engagements.
“Where is the Vice President now? She’s in The Hague. And as far as we know, she’ll be there until July 23. Let’s remember, the President is action-oriented, not on vacation,” she said.
