Palace criticizes VP Sara Duterte for 'dumpster' comment while abroad

On Wednesday, Malacañang responded to Vice President Sara Duterte's statement that the Philippines is 'working to go to the dumpster,' saying, 'Isn't she the one missing in the Philippines right now?'

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro suggested that Duterte may not be aware of the government's efforts because she is abroad and questioned her capacity to lead if she remains uninformed.

Castro emphasized during a press briefing that the country could indeed be heading in the wrong direction if absentee leaders like Duterte were in charge, noting Duterte's prolonged absence hinders her ability to fully carry out her duties as Vice President.

The Vice President is currently in The Hague, Netherlands to oversee the defense of her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, who is being charged by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity during his tenure as Davao City Mayor and president.

Castro added that Duterte's absence leaves her out of touch with ongoing government work and projects implemented to help the people.