19-7-2024 (MANILA) In a surprising turn of events, Vice President Sara Duterte has announced her decision to step back from further involvement in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Cabinet and upcoming political campaigns. The announcement, made on Thursday, marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the Philippines.
Duterte, who recently resigned from her position as Education Secretary, stated that she has “no interest in serving in other capacities” within the current administration’s Cabinet. This declaration comes amidst speculation about potential new roles for the Vice President following her departure from the education portfolio.
In a candid revelation, Duterte disclosed that she had declined invitations from both President Marcos and her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, to campaign for their respective senatorial slates in the 2025 midterm elections. “I think President Marcos will also confirm this… I told him I will not participate yet in the midterm elections,” Duterte told reporters.
The Vice President recounted a meeting with Marcos where he requested her assistance in fielding successful senatorial candidates for the administration. However, Duterte maintained her stance of non-participation, citing a need to determine her own political direction.
Similarly, Duterte mentioned a chance encounter with her father, during which the former president asked her to campaign for the senatorial candidates of his political party, Partido Demokratiko Pilipino. “I also told him that I would not participate in the midterm elections. I still need to think about my direction for the midterm elections, that’s why I can’t give an answer yet to the two of them on what I’ll be doing,” Duterte explained in Filipino.
The Vice President’s decision to abstain from campaigning is particularly noteworthy given her significant political capital and her role as the founder of the regional party Hugpong ng Pagbabago, which achieved considerable success in the previous midterm senatorial elections.
Looking ahead, Duterte revealed plans for a post-State of the Nation Address meeting with Senators Bong Go and Ronald dela Rosa. She described the upcoming discussion as a “heart-to-heart among the three of us,” hinting at potential strategic deliberations within their political circle.
Political analysts suggest that Duterte’s decision to distance herself from both the Cabinet and campaign activities could be a calculated move to maintain her independence and possibly position herself for future political endeavours. Her actions have sparked speculation about potential rifts within the administration and her own political ambitions.
