By Louis ‘Barok‘ C. Biraogo

In the bustling city of Cebu, a conspicuous absence loomed over the grand opening of the Palarong Pambansa 2024. Vice President and outgoing Education Secretary Sara Duterte, a central figure in the Filipino political landscape, was a no-show. Her absence has ignited a flurry of speculation, whispers of political intrigue, and questions about the fragile alliances shaping the nation’s future.

The Palarong Pambansa, the pinnacle of national sporting events in the Philippines, brings together thousands of athletes from across the archipelago. It is a celebration of youth, athleticism, and national pride. The Department of Education, under Duterte’s leadership, has been a crucial organizer of this event, making her attendance seem not only appropriate but expected. Yet, as the crowds gathered and the athletes prepared for their moment in the spotlight, Duterte was elsewhere, visiting hospitalized athletes stricken by dengue—a noble gesture, yet one that raises eyebrows given the timing and the stakes.

Exploring the Controversial Backstory:

Sara Duterte’s non-attendance comes at a politically charged moment. Her resignation from the Cabinet on June 19 came after relations between the Duterte and Marcos families have visibly deteriorated. This fissure was publicized through a series of sharp exchanges between her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, and President Marcos, further compounded by First Lady Liza Marcos’s revelation of personal animosities.

Reasons Sara Should Have Attended:

1. Symbolic Unity and Support: Her presence would have signaled a semblance of unity and stability within the administration, essential for public morale and trust. It would have also shown solidarity with the athletes and their families.
2. Public Responsibility: As the outgoing Education Secretary, her attendance would have demonstrated a commitment to the role until the very end of her term, reflecting positively on her dedication and responsibility.
3. Boost to DepEd Initiatives: Personally endorsing the event would have provided a powerful platform to highlight and reinforce the educational initiatives she championed, ensuring a lasting impact as she transitions out of her role.
4. Political Optics: Attending the event alongside President Marcos could have been an opportunity to mitigate the visible rift and present a unified front, potentially calming the political turbulence.

Understanding the Circumstances of Sara’s Non-Appearance:

1. Political Tensions: The strained relations between the Dutertes and Marcoses likely played a significant role. Her absence could be a deliberate statement of dissent or disapproval, maintaining a distance from the administration she is departing.
2. Focus on Health Crisis: Duterte’s decision to visit hospitalized athletes instead, particularly those suffering from dengue, presents a compassionate rationale. It portrays her as prioritizing urgent health concerns over ceremonial appearances.
3. Strategic Retreat: By stepping back from high-profile events, Duterte might be positioning herself for future political maneuvers, distancing herself from any potential fallout within the current administration.

Impact on Marcos and Duterte’s Political Trajectory:

1. Marcos Administration: Sara’s absence highlights the rift within the administration, potentially undermining President Marcos’s efforts to present a cohesive leadership. It might embolden critics and opposition forces, seizing on the disunity to question the stability and efficacy of the government.
2. Sara Duterte’s Prospects: For Sara, this move could either strengthen her base, portraying her as a principled leader unafraid to distance herself from conflicting interests, or it could alienate potential allies who see her actions as divisive.

Recommendations:

1. For Sara Duterte: Embrace transparency about her reasons for absence to manage public perception. A clear and empathetic explanation can mitigate rumors and present her in a favorable light as a leader focused on priorities.
2. For President Marcos: Utilize this event to reaffirm his administration’s goals and bridge any visible gaps. Highlighting the collaborative efforts within the government, especially in disaster response and public welfare, can counterbalance the narrative of disunity.
3. For Both: Embracing statesmanship and engaging in high-level political maneuvers can have a profound impact. A joint appearance or statement has the potential to not only restore confidence among their supporters and the general public but also to demonstrate a shared commitment to the nation’s welfare. By showcasing a willingness to set aside personal differences and prioritize the greater good, leaders can significantly reinforce unity and stability within the nation.

In the high-stakes world of Philippine politics, every move is scrutinized and every absence is felt. As the nation watches, the coming days will undoubtedly reveal more about the intricate dance of power, loyalty, and strategy playing out at the highest levels.

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