The Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), the political party of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., has raised concerns over Vice President Sara Duterte’s controversial statement about ordering the assassination of the President, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez if harm were to come to her.
In a statement released Sunday, the PFP condemned Duterte’s remarks, saying they undermine democracy and promote a culture of lawlessness.
“Such rhetoric has no place in a democracy, especially in a Bagong Pilipinas that values accountability, peace, and order,” the party stated.
Call for Unity and Accountability
The PFP urged public officials and Filipinos to prioritize unity and work towards ensuring the country’s stability.
“We must transcend personal and political interests, foster peace, and uphold moral recovery. Leaders should demonstrate humility, discipline, and accountability in both words and actions,” the party said.
Background on Duterte’s Statement
Duterte made the controversial remarks early Saturday during a press conference at the House of Representatives. She alleged a threat to her security and claimed to have instructed an unnamed individual to assassinate Marcos, Araneta-Marcos, and Romualdez if she were harmed.
This statement came as the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability cited her chief of staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez, for contempt during its investigation into the use of confidential funds by Duterte’s offices. Lopez, who was ordered transferred to the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW), later fell ill and was taken to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC).
Duterte clarified that her remarks were not an actual threat but a way to highlight concerns about her safety.
Criticism from Lawmakers
House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe accused Duterte of using the statement to divert attention from allegations surrounding her use of P612.5 million in confidential funds from 2022 to 2023.
“That’s just drama and a diversionary tactic to shift focus away from the improper use of funds,” Dalipe said, urging the public not to be deceived.
Lawmakers involved in the probe have questioned inconsistencies in the acknowledgment receipts for the funds. Duterte, however, has denied any misuse and claimed the congressional inquiry is a ploy for impeachment.