VP Sara reiterates 'designated survivor' stance

Vice President Sara Duterte reiterated on Wednesday that her self-appointment as 'designated survivor' for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) is neither a joke nor a bomb threat.

She declined to provide further details, stating it was unnecessary if people did not understand her initial explanation.

Duterte designated herself as the designated survivor when she confirmed that she would not attend Marcos Jr.'s SONA on July 22.

In the United States, a designated survivor is an official in the presidential line of succession intentionally kept away from gatherings to ensure continuity of government leadership.

The vice president's comments have drawn criticism from some lawmakers and the public for being made 'in poor taste'.

Duterte earlier clarified that her resignation as Secretary of Education on July 19 was not due to weakness but out of concern for teachers and students.