Manila: Palace Press Officer Claire Castro defended her response to Vice President Sara Duterte's criticisms, stating that it is part of her responsibility to counter what she referred to as "baseless accusations" against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and his administration.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro's statement came after Vice President Duterte urged her to maintain professionalism, following Castro's dismissal of Duterte's claim that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is the President's lapdog as 'baseless, pointless, and useless.'

As Palace Press Officer, Castro emphasized her mandate is to disseminate information about the President's projects and programs and to counter false information. She remarked, "We only respond to baseless accusations against the President and the administration with evidence. The moment she cannot respond, she resorts to personal attacks. That's not professional."

Castro further elaborated that professionalism requires a leader to remain in the country during calamities, adhere to the law, and face accusations with evidence. "A leader who is professional stays in the country to lead, especially in times of calamity, follows the law and does not use violence, confronts accusations with clear evidence instead of avoiding or damaging the administration, contributes to development and does not cause the collapse of the government," she stated.

Castro concluded by criticizing the Vice President's adherence to these standards, pointing out a perceived lack of professionalism and accountability. Last month, Vice President Duterte had described the ICC as a lapdog of President Marcos and former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, suggesting the case against her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, was politically motivated.