Former Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo criticized President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s decision to remove Vice President Sara Duterte from the National Security Council (NSC) as part of its reorganization.
In a statement on Saturday, Panelo, who also served as Palace spokesperson during the Duterte administration, described the move as “ill-advised” and accused the President of engaging in “dirty politics” aimed at undermining Duterte’s political influence.
“The removal of VP Sara as a member of the National Security Council is an ill-advised presidential move,” Panelo said, adding that the reorganization is “another brazen measure to diminish the political star power of VP Sara.”
Executive Order No. 81
Marcos, through Executive Order No. 81, restructured the NSC, excluding the Vice President and former presidents from its membership. According to the President, the reorganization is aimed at ensuring the NSC’s adaptability to evolving security challenges and maintaining its focus on national security and sovereignty.
In response, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin explained that the Vice President’s role is currently “not considered relevant to the responsibilities of membership in the NSC.” However, the EO allows the President to add members or advisers as necessary.
Broader Implications
Panelo suggested that the exclusion of former Presidents Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Joseph “Erap” Estrada was an attempt to “deodorize” the exclusion of Vice President Duterte, making it appear less targeted.
The move comes amid a backdrop of tension between the President and Vice President. Recently, Duterte raised questions about why she had not been invited to NSC meetings, despite being a member. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said the NSC is coordinating with intelligence and law enforcement agencies to investigate perceived threats against the President, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.
Duterte clarified that her remarks about the First Couple and Romualdez were not threats but emphasized potential risks to her own security.
Historical Context
The NSC, established in 1950 under then-President Elpidio Quirino, originally included the Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker, department heads, and top military officials. Its composition has been revised multiple times over the decades.
Panelo’s sharp rebuke highlights the growing political tension within the administration, as observers weigh the implications of the NSC’s new direction under Marcos.