VP Sara Duterte skips SONA, calls herself 'designated survivor'

Vice President Sara Duterte announced she will not attend President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22, stating she is "appointing myself as the designated survivor."

Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III criticized the remark as a "bad joke" and inappropriate for the context of the SONA.

Deputy Speaker David Suarez expressed disappointment and concern, stating the VP's remark showed a lack of maturity and could imply a threat to the President's safety.

Political analyst Froilan Calilung downplayed the remark, suggesting it does not reflect Filipino values.

Other officials, including Representatives Joel Chua and Senators Risa Hontiveros and Francis Escudero, also criticized the statement.

Former Senator Panfilo Lacson and retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Adolfo Sevilla Azcuna clarified that the Vice President is the constitutional successor and does not need further appointment.

Azcuna added that the VP's presence at the SONA is not required, and the Philippines does not have a law on designated survivors, unlike the United States.