Former President Rodrigo Duterte cautioned President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. against pursuing charter amendments, suggesting it could lead to an ouster similar to that of his father, the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
Speaking at a prayer rally in Davao City, Duterte expressed his apprehensions, stating, “Pumapasok kayo ng alanganin, Mr. President, baka susunod ka sa dinaanan ng tatay mo [at] diyan ako takot, ayoko mangyari sa iyo iyan.” He emphasized that such a move could divide the nation and lead to tumultuous times.
Duterte’s remarks come amidst the backdrop of the historic People Power Revolt of 1986, which ended the over two-decade-long rule of the elder Marcos, marred by corruption and violence. The former president’s statements reflect a deepening rift between his family and allies and the current administration, especially in light of efforts to amend the Constitution via a people’s initiative.
In his speech, Duterte questioned the need to alter the Constitution, urging the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to safeguard it. He warned, “Kapag pinilit mo ito, lalabas ka ng Malacañang kagaya noong panahon na pinalayas kayo.” He further called on the military and police to scrutinize these changes and to take corrective actions if needed.
The charter change initiative, reportedly supported by House Speaker Martin Romualdez and First Lady Liza Marcos Araneta, has been marred by allegations of bribery and met with strong opposition from the Senate. The recent manifestation of this opposition is the unanimous rejection of the House of Representative’s bid by all 24 Senators, citing concerns over potential comprehensive constitutional revisions.
Amidst these political tensions, both the Marcos and Duterte factions demonstrated their strength in Manila and Davao City, with each side organizing significant events. While the Marcos administration promoted the “Bagong Pilipinas” movement, aiming to foster hope and collective action for a better Philippines, the Davao City rally, named “One Nation, One Opposition,” protested against the proposed constitutional changes. At this event, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte openly called for President Marcos’s resignation if his love and aspirations for the country were lacking, reminding him of the elder Duterte’s role in permitting the burial of their father.