Malacañang on Thursday rejected Vice President Sara Duterte’s claim that the recent Senate impasse reflected weak leadership under the Marcos administration.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Duterte’s remarks were misleading and accused the Vice President of repeatedly spreading false claims that confuse the public.
Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had nothing to do with the incidents that disrupted Senate proceedings, including the reported gun-related incident, the escape of Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa, and the suspension of session that led to the impasse.
She said the events involved senators identified as allies of the Vice President.
“So, hindi totoo na patungkol daw sa kahinaan ng liderato sa administrasyon, kung hindi ito ay sa patuloy na pang-aabuso sa kapangyarihan para lamang sa kanilang mga kaalyado,” Castro said.
She also criticized efforts to shift blame to the administration while portraying themselves as victims.
“So, huwag sanang mamihasa sa pagdudungis ng iba para magmukhang biktima sa ating mga mata,” Castro added.
Asked whether Marcos was concerned that the Senate deadlock could affect Duterte’s impeachment trial, Castro said the President’s position remains unchanged.
She said Marcos only wants due process to be observed and the rule of law to be followed.