Palace: VP Duterte should focus on duties, not criticize Marcos

Malacañang dismissed Vice President Sara Duterte's recent criticisms of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., stating that the president is focused on his leadership priorities.

Palace press officer Claire Castro responded to Duterte's advice for Marcos to 'look in the mirror' and reiterated that public servants should reflect on their work, while questioning where Duterte was when she made those statements.

Castro emphasized that the administration expects Vice President Duterte not to criticize the government or project a lack of direction from the president; instead, she highlighted how President Marcos is helping various sectors such as farmers, fisherfolk, and students.

At a press briefing, Castro also agreed with OVP spokesperson Ruth Castelo's assertion that she is not an 'attack dog' for the vice president, clarifying that Duterte does not need one.

Castro further noted that personal trips or vacations are not part of the Vice President’s mandate, suggesting that Duterte should focus on her official duties rather than criticizing the government.