Politics · Philippines Bureau
Palace Questions VP Duterte's Remarks After Fresh Attack on Marcos
Presidential spokesperson Claire Castro challenged Vice President Sara Duterte's criticism of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., questioning whether the vice president applied the same standards to her own father. The exchange marks the latest escalation in public tensions between the two officials.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Palace press officer Claire Castro on Friday challenged Vice President Sara Duterte over her recent attacks on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., asking pointedly whether she had similarly criticized her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, when he disclosed his use of illegal drugs.
Castro's remarks came as Duterte reiterated her criticism of the sitting president during a public appearance. The vice president has made several pointed statements against Marcos in recent weeks, escalating what has become an increasingly visible rift between the two officials.
The exchange highlights deepening divisions within the executive branch. Duterte's criticism of Marcos has become more frequent and direct, while the palace has responded by questioning the consistency and appropriateness of the vice president's public statements.
The tension between the two officials comes as the administration navigates significant policy challenges. Political observers have noted that public disagreements between top government figures can complicate efforts to present a unified governance agenda to the public.