VP Sara Duterte Decries Vote Buying in People’s Initiative for Charter Change
DAVAO CITY – Vice President Sara Z. Duterte expressed her dismay on Friday over reported incidents of bribery to promote a People’s Initiative (PI) for charter change. The Vice President highlighted the detrimental impact of these actions on the dignity and rights of Filipino voters, especially in her hometown of Davao City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the attempts at vote buying for the PI are exploitative of the poor and disregard the voters’ right to make decisions freely and without monetary influence. “Usa kini ka pagpanamaytamay sa dignidad sa mga yanong katawhang Pilipino (This crushes the dignity of ordinary Filipinos),” Duterte stated. She also criticized the apparent indifference of politicians to the real struggles of ordinary Filipinos.
Duterte reminded the public of the serious implications that each signature on the PI has on their lives, freedom, and future. She described the push for the People’s Initiative amidst poverty and peace and order uncertainties as a “painful sign” of the failure to address and solve real issues affecting Filipinos.
The Vice President also highlighted the importance of focusing on the recent travel advisory issued by the Canadian government against certain areas in Mindanao. The advisory cautions Canadian citizens against traveling to various parts of the region, including Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur (excluding Davao City), and several others, due to concerns over crimes, terrorism, armed conflict, and kidnapping.
“As a Mindanaoan, I am worried about the travel advisory issued by the Canadian Government against some parts of the Philippines,” Duterte said. She expressed concern that this might indicate more serious security and order issues in the communities.
The Canadian advisory, issued on January 10, advises citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” in the Philippines, citing the risk of insurgent group clashes with security forces and the potential for unwitting involvement in these conflicts.
Duterte emphasized that the welfare of Filipinos should be the government’s top priority, rather than focusing on allowing foreigners to enter the country. “Unahin muna natin ang Pilipinas. Ingatan po natin ang ating Saligang Batas (Let us prioritize the Philippines. Let us take care of our constitution),” she urged.
The proposed constitutional amendments aim to liberalize various industries, including public services, education, and advertising, by allowing foreign corporations and individuals more investment opportunities in the Philippines. Senator Sonny Angara, who will lead the subcommittee discussing these amendments, plans to start deliberations with economic experts and industry representatives after Congress resumes on January 22.