Brunei News Gazette

Post: Manila Lawmaker Urges Vice President Sara Duterte to Support, Not Criticize, Marcos Administration

QUEZON CITY — Rep. Joel Chua of Manila's 3rd District called for an end to destabilization efforts against the Marcos administration, emphasizing unity and collaboration during a Saturday News Forum.

According to Philippines News Agency, Vice President Sara Duterte's recent criticisms, particularly regarding the lack of a flood mitigation masterplan, were both "unfair and uncalled for." He defended President Marcos's proactive measures in addressing the impacts of Super Typhoon Carina-induced monsoon rains, which led to significant flooding in Metro Manila. Chua praised the President for his dedication to improving the lives of Filipinos by providing assistance and seeking to generate more job opportunities. "If you look at it, our President is doing everything. He goes around, looking for investors," he said.

Chua expressed concern that Vice President Duterte's continued focus on criticizing the administration could tarnish the country's image and undermine efforts to project stability and attract investment. He urged Duterte to assist rather than undermine Marcos, stating, "Whether you are with the opposition or the administration, you are part of the administration. Of course, we all want the current administration to be successful."

He also highlighted the negative implications of public disputes between high-ranking officials on national stability, especially in the eyes of the business community. "Destabilization efforts will have a bad impact on our image because businessmen would think that our government is not stable. And to think that the ones squabbling are the President and the Vice President," Chua remarked.