New delhi: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stated he has no response to Vice President Sara Duterte's recent accusations against him, suggesting her attacks might stem from her current legal challenges.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a media briefing on Sunday after the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India, Marcos was questioned about Duterte's allegations, including her claim of an alleged plan against her. The President remarked that he is aware of the accusations but does not feel obligated to respond. "You know, I hear about them, but I don't really even have a response. If she feels very angry, I suppose, with what's happening to her. And I am the target of that anger, or the main target of that anger. What can I do?" Marcos stated. He further added, "You cannot force anyone to love you."

The comments come amidst ongoing political and legal tensions between Marcos and Duterte. Vice President Duterte is currently embroiled in a criminal case before a Quezon City court for grave threats against the First Couple and former Speaker Martin Romualdez. Having run and won together under a unity platform in the 2022 elections, the President and Vice President have since become political adversaries, with Duterte also facing impeachment proceedings.

Duterte has recently accused Marcos of conspiring against her, including an alleged plot involving former President Rodrigo Duterte and threats to her safety. Malaca±ang has dismissed these allegations as lacking evidence.