Malacañang has dismissed Vice President Sara Duterte’s criticism of the government’s repatriation program for overseas Filipinos amid the Middle East crisis, calling her statements baseless.
Duterte earlier suggested that it should be “too easy to send planes” to bring Filipinos home, citing acquaintances who managed to return from Dubai despite reported airspace restrictions.
She also claimed that many overseas Filipino workers were reluctant to come back due to limited job opportunities under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro countered the remarks, saying they reflect a misunderstanding of government processes.
“Unang-una po siguro, ‘yan ang problema po sa mga hindi nag-aaral at hindi nag-iisip at hindi inaalam po ano talaga ang programa ng gobyernong ito,” Castro said.
She explained that decisions concerning the safety and welfare of overseas Filipinos are based on verified information, logistical realities, and coordination with relevant stakeholders.
“Dahil kung diyan po mangagaling ang iyong desisyon, malamang lumigwak, lumigwak ang buong Pilipinas kung puro kaibigan, puro tsismis lang po ang ating pagbabasehan ng desisyon,” she added.
The Palace emphasized that responsible leadership requires decisions grounded in facts and careful planning, stressing that national policies cannot be shaped by isolated stories or personal anecdotes.