ZAMBOANGA CITY — Vice President Sara Duterte expressed gratitude to her supporters for their unwavering trust amid ongoing political issues, emphasizing that public backing continues to strengthen her resolve to fulfill her duties at the Office of the Vice President (OVP).
Speaking during an ambush interview in Zamboanga City on October 15, Duterte was asked to address reports indicating a rise in her trust ratings despite legal complaints and controversies faced by her office.
While she declined to give weight to the survey figures—questioning their background, methodology, and sponsors—she shifted focus to the warm reception she has received from the public.
“Hindi ko naman kasi alam paano ginagawa ang mga surveys, ano ang methodology, at sino ang nagpapagawa ng mga surveys. Kaya hindi po ako maka-comment sa survey,” Duterte explained.
“Pero ang lagi ko pong sinasabi sa lahat po ng mga lugar na pinupuntahan ko kung saan lumalapit yung mga tao at nagpapahayag ng kanilang suporta ay ang aking pong pagpapasalamat dahil kahit po bugbog-sarado, ako at yung opisina ng Office of the Vice President sa politika, ay nandiyan pa rin yung pagtitiwala at suporta ng ating mga kababayan sa amin,” she added.
The Vice President noted that facing intense political pressure makes the backing of ordinary citizens even more meaningful, driving her team to stay focused on public service.
“Kaya po, ganun na lang din po yung commitment namin sa trabaho namin sa Office of the Vice President,” she stated.
Duterte traveled to Zamboanga City to attend the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Philippines National Convention, taking the opportunity to thank the organizers for the invitation during the city’s celebration of the feast of Our Lady of the Pillar.
Aside from political matters, she highlighted the ongoing relief efforts and aid distribution by the OVP’s Western Mindanao satellite office, specifically mentioning the provision of RIICE boxes to aid families and individuals undergoing crises and emergencies.