Several members of the House of Representatives are urging Vice President Sara Duterte to publicly address China’s increasing assertiveness in the West Philippine Sea, highlighting her lack of response as a concerning silence. Lawmakers, including Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur, have called on Duterte to clarify her stance on the issue, emphasizing that her position on this matter will significantly influence public perception of her leadership.
Despite being vocal on various national issues, Duterte has remained notably quiet on China’s recent actions in the contested waters, leading to criticism from lawmakers who believe it is essential for the country’s second highest official to speak out. Adiong pointed out that Duterte’s silence could be interpreted as indifference, a stance that might define her leadership legacy.
This criticism is part of a broader tension between Duterte and the Marcos administration, with recent remarks from the vice president openly challenging government policies. While some lawmakers defend her silence, arguing that it is not within her role to address foreign policy directly, others insist that her input is crucial in uniting the nation against external threats.