Marcos Dismisses Duterte's 'Desperate' Claims Against Administration

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has disputed Vice President Sara Duterte's recent claims that the administration is mounting a campaign against her, according to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro. Castro made the remarks during a Monday briefing when asked to respond to Duterte's denials regarding allegations made in connection with a dismissed police corporal.

The verbal exchange marks the latest escalation in tensions between the two top officials, who have previously clashed over various policy matters and investigations. Duterte has repeatedly asserted that she is facing unfounded attacks from the Marcos administration, a characterization that administration officials have consistently rejected.

The dispute centers on allegations connected to the dismissed police officer, whose identity and specific claims remain subjects of ongoing scrutiny. Duterte's office has maintained that the claims against her are baseless and politically motivated.

The confrontation underscores deepening divisions at the highest levels of Philippine government, with both sides accusing the other of operating in bad faith. Palace officials have signaled they intend to defend the administration's record against what they characterize as unfounded allegations from the Vice President.