Vice President Sara Duterte has openly criticized President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., claiming he does not know how to lead the country. During a press conference in Mandaluyong City on Friday, Duterte revealed that her dissatisfaction with Marcos’ leadership led to her resignation as the Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary.
“Hindi marunong maging Presidente ang nakaupo, kasalanan ko ba iyon? (The one sitting doesn’t know how to be President, is that my fault?)” Duterte said, adding that she left the administration because of what she was seeing and hearing.
Duterte gave Marcos a harsh rating of 1 out of 10 for his performance, pointing to a lack of clear plans to address key issues like food security and inflation. She also revealed that their communication was strictly professional, describing the environment as “toxic.”
Furthermore, Duterte mentioned she has a list of impeachable offenses committed by Marcos but doubts they would lead to action in Congress.
The vice president also expressed that she felt “used” by Marcos’ camp during the 2022 elections. She claimed it was Senator Imee Marcos, the President’s sister, who persuaded her to run for vice president to strengthen their ticket’s support in the Visayas region. Despite feeling this way, Duterte clarified that she does not regret running as vice president or teaming up with Marcos.
Duterte also raised allegations of bribery involving House Speaker Martin Romualdez, accusing him of accepting a bribe from a foreign national during the campaign period, further criticizing his ambitions for the presidency.
Malacañang has declined to comment on Duterte’s statements.