At least two senators have dismissed Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent comments about appointing herself as the “designated survivor” and skipping the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22.
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero interpreted Duterte’s remarks as a light-hearted reference rather than a serious statement. “I believe she does not want to attend SONA 2024. I guess she was simply making light of her excuse by quoting a Netflix series. Personally, I won’t give any special or deeper meaning to it,” Escudero said.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, an ally of Duterte, echoed this sentiment, suggesting the Vice President was merely highlighting her role as next in line to the presidency. “I don’t think naman na ganon ang kanyang ibig sabihn doon… I think ang nasa isip niya is siya ang next in line,” Gatchalian said, emphasizing that the Vice President is indeed the next in line according to the Constitution.
Call for Investigation
House Senior Deputy Speaker Dong Gonzales, however, took Duterte’s statement seriously and called for an investigation. “Implying that something bad will happen when President Marcos Jr. delivers his SONA is a very serious matter that warrants an investigation,” Gonzales stated, expressing concern over the potential implications of her remarks.
Responses from Other Lawmakers
Other lawmakers, including Kabataan party-list Representative Raoul Manuel, criticized Duterte, suggesting her comments implied ill will towards the current administration for personal gain. Representatives from various districts and party-lists also voiced their disapproval, stressing that such statements could undermine public confidence and the significance of the SONA.
Isabela Rep. Inno Dy V, 1-Rider party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez, Davao Oriental Rep. Cheeno Miguel Almario, La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon, Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun, and Camigun Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo all condemned Duterte’s remarks, underscoring the importance of unity and proper decorum.
Background and Context
The controversy arose after Duterte mentioned she would not attend the President’s third SONA, citing her role as the “designated survivor,” a term popularized by a television series in which a designated official survives an attack on the government. This led to concerns and criticisms regarding the appropriateness and implications of her statement.
GMA News Online has reached out to the Palace and the Department of National Defense for comments but has yet to receive a response.