Vice President Sara Duterte affirmed her unwavering commitment to public service, asserting that her ability to assist Filipinos is not tethered to her current political title.
In a video interview released by the Office of the Vice President on Thursday, May 7, Duterte explained that while her current role provides a broader platform for aid, she is prepared to serve in any capacity.
“Para sa akin, kung manatili akong Vice President, well and good,” Duterte said. “Kung hindi man din ako maging Vice President, okay lang din sa akin.”
Speaking from The Hague, Netherlands, a day prior, the Vice President reiterated that her capacity to support the public would remain intact even if she were no longer in government.
She emphasized that genuine service is a matter of intent rather than rank or position.
“Makakatulong pa rin ako sa mga tao sa ibang capacity na, sa ibang pamamaraan. So, either way, hindi mawawala ‘yung capacity kong tumulong,” she added.
Duterte expressed that she holds no desperate attachment to her seat in power, noting that anyone with a sincere desire to help can find a way to do so.
“Hindi ako gigil ba doon sa posisyon kasi, kahit anong posisyon naman kung gusto mo talagang tumulong sa mga tao, pwede naman ‘yun,” Duterte said.
To illustrate her point, she recalled her transition after serving as the Mayor of Davao City. Instead of immediately seeking a new elective post in 2013, she returned to her roots in the legal profession.
“Pagkatapos kong mag-Mayor, hindi ako tumakbo sa pulitika. Nag-abogado ako at nakatulong ako. Hindi man kasing lawak ng sa Office of the Vice President, pero nakatulong din ako sa mga tao bilang abogado,” Duterte said.