Vice President Sara Duterte continues to oversee her office’s operations despite her recent extended absences from the country, according to the Office of the Vice President (OVP).
The statement comes amid public scrutiny over Duterte’s international travels in recent months, which included trips to the Netherlands in May, Malaysia and Australia in June, and another round of visits to the Netherlands and South Korea in July.
Ruth Castelo, OVP spokesperson, clarified on Wednesday that the Vice President remains deeply involved in the office’s programs, even while working remotely.
“She may not be here physically—we just can’t see her—but the necessary work for the office is still being done,” Castelo emphasized. She described the Vice President’s engagement as unwavering, even saying Duterte has become “more involved” since their programs began in 2022.
“Even if she’s not physically here, she’s still the one running the office,” Castelo said, noting that the Vice President gives direct instructions through digital platforms. “We’re the ones here working—we’re the soldiers—but the instructions come from the VP herself.”
Castelo even quipped, “Minsan virtual, minsan ghost,” implying that Duterte’s presence is sometimes felt only online.
The OVP’s statement also addressed the recent dip in the Vice President’s performance rating in public surveys, which showed a decline from 56 to 50 points. Castelo said they respect the results, regardless of the source.
“In light of that, we’ve resolved to do better,” she added. “The Vice President herself has committed to working even harder to further improve the service we provide to the people.”
