Vice President Sara Duterte on Thursday brushed aside questions about her possible plans for the 2028 elections, instead expressing concern over whether the Philippines would remain a country worth contesting by then amid worsening national conditions.
Speaking after the burial of her uncle in Davao City, Duterte warned that the country could face deeper economic decline, corruption, and environmental problems in the coming years.
“Unang-una ang tanong, meron pa bang bayan, meron pa bang Pilipinas na pag-uusapan?”
She also reiterated her claim that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s signing of the national budget constitutes an impeachable offense.
“Pinakauna na impeachable offense yung pagpirma ng budget na alam mong galing siya sa bill na may mga blanko at merong mga insertions.”
Duterte further questioned the President’s fitness to lead, saying refusal to address concerns over competence or allegations of illegal drug use could likewise be grounds for impeachment.
“Impeachable offense din yung humihindi ang isang opisyal kapag merong nagtatanong ng competency niya na mamuno at may nagsasabi na gumagamit siya ng ilegal na droga.”
On foreign policy, Duterte declined to give specifics on the West Philippine Sea issue but emphasized the importance of strengthening the country’s international relations.
“Dapat ayusin natin ang ating relasyon sa lahat ng mga kapitbahay natin at sa lahat ng iba pang mga bansa sa buong mundo.”