Vice President Sara Duterte openly expressed her concerns about the current administration under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
In a message on Wednesday, Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio conveyed her deep gratitude to the Muslim communities for their courage and willingness to assist in ensuring the safety of her family and herself.
"Maraming salamat sa aking mga kapatid na Iranun, Kagan, Maguindanao, Maranao, Sama at Tausug, para sa walang takot na pagpapahayag ng suporta at kagustuhang tumulong para sa kaligtasan ko at ng aking pamilya," she wrote in her message posted on social media.
Duterte asserted that while personal security is important, the greater concern should be the nation's well-being. She criticized the current leadership for its lack of commitment and integrity, which she believes jeopardizes the country's future.
The Vice President highlighted several areas where the government has fallen short:
- Disaster Preparedness: Duterte pointed out that the Philippines, prone to annual typhoons, lacks a comprehensive flood-control master plan and resilient infrastructure.
- Healthcare System: She criticized the mismanagement of PhilHealth funds, which she claimed are diverted from essential health services.
- Law Enforcement: Duterte expressed frustration over the inadequate police-to-population ratio and the need for modern technology to address this issue effectively.
- Airport Security: She condemned airport officials for their failure to ensure security and privacy, particularly concerning sensitive information.
- Foreign Interference: The Vice President denounced the government's submission to foreign entities like the International Criminal Court (ICC), asserting that the Philippines should stand firm against external meddling.
Duterte urged Filipinos to strive for excellence and hold their leaders accountable. She called for a united effort to push for meaningful reforms and to ensure that the Philippines rises above its current challenges.
"Subalit ang Pilipinas ngayon ay patuloy na nagugutom, naghihirap, at lumulubog nang dahil sa mga mapanlinlang para maupo sa pwesto. Pagod na pagod na tayong makita ang bayan na napag-iiwanan, tinatrato na parang walang halaga, hindi kaaya-aya, at sunod-sunuran sa ibang lahi. We, Filipinos, deserve more than what we are hearing and seeing from the government right now. We, Filipinos, deserve better," said the Vice President.
It is noted that the Philippine National Police, led by PNP Chief Police General Rommel Marbil, removed 75 officers from Duterte's security detail, which the Vice President called a case of "personal harassment."
Meanwhile, Marbil stated that they did not see any threats against Duterte and emphasized that there was no political pressure regarding the move.
He mentioned that the removal of some of Duterte's security detail was due to the organization's deployment arrangements.
Yesterday, Marbil vowed to reinstate at least the police escorts who have been with the Dutertes for a long time and are "trusted" by the Vice President.
