Malacañang has pushed back against the idea that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is becoming a “lame duck” as his administration moves closer to the end of its term, saying he remains actively engaged in his duties and continues to oversee government programs.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro addressed the issue during a radio interview with DZRH on Thursday, when she was asked whether Marcos could eventually be viewed as a president with declining political influence.
Castro said she does not see signs of Marcos losing authority, pointing to the continued implementation of government projects and his administration’s ongoing activities.
“Sa ngayon, hindi ko nararamdaman. Dami pa rin naman natatakot kung ano ang mangyayari sa kanilang mga kaso. Nandiyan pa at sinusunod ang Pangulo sa lahat ng mga proyekto, sa lahat ng gusto niyang mangyari para sa kababayan natin,” she said.
“I don’t think so,” she added.
The term “lame duck” is commonly used to describe an elected official nearing the end of a term, especially after a successor has already been chosen, and whose political influence is perceived to be weakening.
Castro maintained that Marcos’ work ethic and the progress of government initiatives demonstrate that he remains focused on fulfilling his responsibilities.
She also described his public approach as relatively quiet and low-profile, emphasizing that results matter more than public displays.
“Ang Pangulo, kung magtrabaho lang, tahimik lang siya, hindi maingay, walang mura, walang galit. Trabaho, trabaho. Mas okay ‘yun eh, tahimik lang pero nakikita niyo kung ano ang resulta,” she said.