Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued a directive for the government to prioritize work and avoid engaging in political activities, as confirmed by Malaca±ang. In a press conference, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reiterated that President Marcos is committed to serving the Filipino people, focusing solely on his mandate and the responsibilities that come with it.
According to Philippines News Agency, Castro emphasized that President Marcos is clear about his objectives and the tasks that need to be accomplished. "Ang Pangulong Marcos Jr., alam po niya ang direksiyon niya. Alam po niya ang dapat na gawing trabaho at iyan po ang pinag-uutos sa lahat ng public servants lalong-lalo na po sa ilalim ng executive department. Ang utos sa amin ay magtrabaho, iwasan ang pamumulitika," she stated, indicating the president's directive for all public servants, particularly those within the executive branch, to concentrate on their duties and steer clear of political maneuvering.
Castro further noted that President Marcos is dedicated to helping the citizens without wasting time on non-essential matters. "Hindi po nag-aaksaya ng panahon ang ating Pangulo para tumulong sa taumbayan. Trabaho lamang po talaga ang nasa isip ng ating Pangulo," she added, highlighting the president's unwavering focus on work.
The statement from Castro came in response to Vice President Sara Duterte's call for President Marcos to "stop politicking" and focus on public service. Castro pointed out that Duterte has been critical of the administration's initiatives, such as the PHP20-per-kg rice program under the Benteng Bigas Meron Na initiative.
In her remarks, Castro questioned Duterte's current focus, noting her absence from the country. "Sa ngayon po ba ay nasaan si VP Sara or si Bise Presidente noong iyan ay sinabi niya? Nasaan po ba siya ngayon? The Hague, okay. At ang ating pagkakaalam hanggang kailan po siya doon? Hanggang July 23. So, iyon lamang po. Tandaan po natin, ang Pangulo po 'aksiyon, aksiyon - hindi bakasyon,'" she remarked, stressing that President Marcos is committed to action rather than taking vacations.
Vice President Duterte is currently in The Hague, Netherlands, visiting her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, who is detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC) facing charges of crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign. Duterte stated that her father's "final wish" is to be cremated if he passes away while in the Netherlands.
When asked about the Vice President's remarks concerning her father, Castro responded that it is a "family matter" for the Dutertes to decide upon.
