MANILA – Malacañang on Tuesday suggested that Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent criticisms of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. might have been influenced by inaccurate information. This comes after Duterte questioned the administration’s handling of the Middle East crisis and cited concerns about empathy and alleged mismanagement of public funds.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Duterte’s comments could have stemmed from misleading premises during a recent interview.
“I noticed that the Vice President’s responses may reflect that she is being fed incorrect information,” Castro said in a press briefing in Cebu.
Castro cited an example where Duterte was asked about overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) supposedly frustrated over the handling of repatriates at the airport. “Since the premise was already incorrect, it creates a situation where the Vice President may unknowingly become a source of misinformation,” she explained.
She emphasized the importance of accurate and neutral questions from journalists to allow informed responses. “It is better to remain neutral when asking questions so that the Vice President can provide well-informed answers,” Castro added.
The Palace also defended President Marcos against claims of having “many shortcomings.” Castro noted, “It’s important to observe and listen before speaking. Prioritizing speech over careful consideration can lead to inaccurate conclusions.”
She highlighted several government initiatives designed to mitigate the effects of the Middle East crisis, including fuel subsidies for public transport drivers, farmers, and fisherfolk.
ia/xf
