DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte has chosen to remain silent regarding the recent Malacañang directive mandating the inclusion of the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn in Monday flag-raising ceremonies across government agencies.
This directive, seen by some as a symbolic nod to the Marcos era, has elicited a range of reactions nationwide.
Following the Independence Day celebration at San Pedro Square on Wednesday, reporters sought Duterte’s comments on the directive and other pressing issues. However, the Vice President declined to discuss the controversial removal of Maria Belen Acosta as the chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA). Despite persistent questions from the media, Duterte avoided addressing the leadership upheaval at MinDA, a topic that has generated significant debate within political circles.
In response to inquiries about the potential suspension of her brother, Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, VP Sara responded cautiously. “Wala koy nahibal-an na information about sa suspension ni Mayor Baste Duterte,” she said in Cebuano (I don’t have any information about the suspension of Mayor Baste Duterte. If there is any paper or document regarding his suspension, we should wait and see what legal actions Mayor Baste will take).
This statement followed remarks by Atty. Harry Roque, the former presidential spokesperson, recently suggested that Mayor Baste might be facing suspension. Roque’s comments have caused a stir among Davaoeños, particularly since City Hall has not received any official complaints or suspension orders from the Office of the President.
Roque is no stranger to controversy. Earlier this year, he sparked a public outcry by alleging the existence of a “gentleman’s agreement” between former President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping concerning the West Philippine Sea. This claim was promptly and emphatically denied by former President Duterte.
As the situation develops, the public remains watchful of the implications surrounding these issues, especially the silence of VP Sara Duterte, who continues to play a pivotal role in the national political landscape.
