Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is receptive to the 'meaningful' suggestions that may come from the Office of the Vice President (OVP), Malaca±ang said on Thursday. The statement comes in response to remarks made by OVP spokesperson Ruth Castelo, who emphasized the importance of involving Vice President Sara Duterte in national projects and ensuring adequate funding for her initiatives.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castelo had expressed concerns that excluding Duterte or failing to allocate funds for her projects would be detrimental to the country. In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reiterated that President Marcos is open to good suggestions from the OVP, emphasizing that the President does not reject meaningful proposals and maintains an open-door policy towards the Vice President.

Castro highlighted that all suggestions that could potentially benefit the populace would be considered. However, she noted that Duterte herself had expressed reluctance to support the Marcos administration despite knowing strategies to reduce rice prices. Castro pointed out that the administration is not obstructing Duterte's efforts to aid the public, indicating a willingness to collaborate for the nation's progress.

Regarding budget allocations, Castro clarified that the President had no involvement in the reduction of the OVP's budget for 2025. Despite the House of Representatives reducing the OVP's requested budget from PHP2.03 billion to PHP733 million due to Duterte's non-compliance with budget inquiries, the Department of Budget and Management has increased the office's budget to PHP903 million for 2026.

Castro suggested that if Duterte desires a larger budget, she should present a well-defended proposal, akin to a student defending a thesis, to justify the need for increased funding.