The Vice President’s Lament: An Examination of Sara Duterte’s Criticisms

By Louis ‘Barok‘ C. Biraogo

VICE PRESIDENT Sara Duterte’s recent tirade against the Philippine government presents a troubling paradox. In a sweeping statement, she condemned the administration for its perceived failures in health, security, infrastructure, and the handling of foreign interference. Her words strike a chord with many frustrated Filipinos, but they also raise questions about her own role and responsibilities within the government she criticizes.

Firstly, it’s worth noting that as Vice President, Duterte is part of the very administration she chastises. The mandate given to her by the people was not simply to highlight issues but to be part of the solution. The electorate expected her to leverage her position to address the country’s problems constructively. Instead, she seems to have chosen the path of public condemnation, distancing herself from the very government she pledged to serve.

Moreover, Duterte’s tenure as Education Secretary for more than two years is a critical aspect that cannot be overlooked. If the infrastructure and healthcare systems are lacking, one must ask what strides she made in improving the educational infrastructure and policies during her term. Criticizing President Marcos for the current state of affairs without reflecting on her own contributions or shortcomings in office seems disingenuous.

Criticism of the administration’s infrastructure program also appears selective. If President Marcos, who has been in office for two years, is to be held accountable for the current state of infrastructure, then should not his father, who served as president for six years prior, share in the blame? This selective scrutiny undermines the integrity of her critique, suggesting perhaps a political maneuver rather than a genuine concern for national progress.

Duterte’s vague accusations of disloyalty among government officials demand further scrutiny. If there are indeed officials betraying their sworn duties, it is not enough to make broad allegations. As Vice President, she has the responsibility to name these individuals and, if necessary, file cases against them. Failing to do so not only weakens her claims but also perpetuates a culture of unaccountability she ostensibly stands against.

Furthermore, her own actions during Typhoon Carina cast a shadow on her proclamations of ‘malasakit’ (compassion). As the country reeled from the devastation, Duterte was photographed leaving the country for a personal trip. The timing, described as “unfortunate” by her office, suggests a disconnect between her words and actions. Genuine leadership would have demanded her presence and active involvement in relief efforts, not an escape to personal affairs.

Duterte’s insistence on prioritizing police resources for her security over the broader needs of the population is another troubling point. While security is undoubtedly important, it should not come at the expense of the public’s safety. Her demands for police resources reflect a prioritization of personal security over public welfare, contradicting the very ethos of public service she espouses.

Lastly, the political undertones of Duterte’s criticisms cannot be ignored. As 2028 approaches, it’s hard to overlook the possibility that her statements are a strategic move to position herself for a presidential bid. The political landscape in the Philippines is notoriously tumultuous, and Duterte’s broadside against the current administration may well be a calculated step to galvanize support for her future ambitions.

In light of these issues, several recommendations emerge. For Vice President Duterte, a more constructive approach would involve working within the system to address the problems she highlights. Naming and holding accountable those she accuses of disloyalty, engaging in active disaster response, and balancing personal security needs with public safety are essential steps. Moreover, focusing on the genuine needs of the populace rather than political positioning would demonstrate true leadership.

For the government officials she alludes to, transparency and accountability are paramount. Addressing the issues raised by Duterte requires a collective effort, transcending political rivalries. Strengthening infrastructure, healthcare, and security systems should be prioritized, with clear communication and public engagement to rebuild trust.

In this intricate dance of politics and governance, the Filipino people deserve more than rhetoric and accusations. They deserve leaders who embody the compassion and competence they preach, who engage in constructive dialogue, and who place the welfare of the nation above personal or political gain. The challenge for Vice President Duterte and her peers is to rise to this expectation, to transform criticism into action, and to ensure that the future of the Philippines is one of hope, progress, and unity.