A Palace official has warned that the Philippines could risk electing a leader beholden to a foreign power in 2028, following Vice President Sara Duterte’s remarks casting doubt on the country’s future.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Friday:
“Kung ang kaniyang hula ay magkakatotoo, malamang mangyayari iyan kung ang isang lider na iboboto sa 2028 ay isang Manchurian candidate, isang puppet ng isang bansa kung saan maaaring ipamigay ang ating yaman, ang ating karapatan sa ibang bansa.”
Duterte had earlier questioned whether there would still be a Philippines to speak of by 2028, citing corruption, flooding, and stalled development, warning of a “broken government.”
Castro rejected the assessment, citing ongoing programs in transportation and education:
“Unang-una, masasabi natin ang bise presidente ay bulag, hindi niya nakikita kung ano ang ginagawa ng Pangulo… drama pero walang gawa.”
Duterte responded that Castro’s remarks embarrassed the country and should be ignored, but Castro stood firm:
“Hindi po nakakahiyang magsabi ng katotohanan.”
The exchange highlights growing political tensions, with Malacañang cautioning against external influence while Duterte continues to critique governance and development efforts.