Vice President Sara Duterte has called on government leaders to halt political power plays and direct their efforts toward ensuring national stability and local progress.
Speaking on July 8 during her visit to Surigao del Sur for the Araw ng Bigaan and Hinatuan’s 65th Patronal Fiesta, Duterte voiced her disappointment with the current political landscape.
“Unang-una, ipinapaabot ko sa ating mga opisyal ng pamahalaan na itigil na muna natin ang pamumulitika,” Duterte said in an interview.
She went on to challenge the underlying motives of certain politicians, stating, “Pananawagan nila ng transparency at accountability, pero ang totoong pakay nila ay ang kanilang sariling political interest.”
The Vice President pointed out that grassroots communities have long been awaiting meaningful improvements in their quality of life.
She pressed public officials to pour their energy into establishing safety and prosperity, especially in regions burdened by joblessness and inadequate basic services.
“Pangalawa, sa ating mga opisyal pa rin ng pamahalaan na tutukan natin ang kaayusan, kapayapaan at kaunlaran ng ating bayan,” she urged, adding, “Matagal nang naghihintay ang ating mga kababayan na mas maging maayos ang kanilang buhay.”
Duterte challenged leaders to adopt the Cebuano principle of “kalinaw ug kalambuan,” meaning peace and development, as the guiding framework for their governance.
Turning her attention to the local residents, the Vice President underscored the connection between economic resilience and community peace.
She advised adults to secure steady jobs or launch businesses, while encouraging the youth to remain disciplined and focus on their education to become the country’s future leaders.