Newly appointed Palace press officer Undersecretary Claire Castro on Monday criticized former President Rodrigo Duterte’s claim that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. might not relinquish power in 2028, calling it baseless and politically motivated.
Castro questioned Duterte’s evidence for his statement, recalling that the former leader had previously admitted to being an “expert” in creating intrigue.
“Ang una kong sinabi diyan noon, anong ebidensya, paano mapapatunayan? Tatlo lang ang sinabi ko hindi tayo puwedeng maniwala sa mga pang-iintriga lamang na walang ebidensya,” she said.
She also accused Duterte of fabricating allegations, referencing the case of former senator Leila de Lima.
“Siguro naman napatunayan na natin ‘yan sa panahon ni senator Leila de Lima so ano pa ba ang ating ie-expect sa dating Pangulong Duterte? Gumawa ng intriga, magplanta ng ebidensya,” she added.
Castro claimed that the Dutertes are seeking to return to power, suggesting their latest remarks were politically driven.
“So alam na natin kung saan ang punta nila, gusto nila ulit makuha ang power, ang authority, ang position,” she said.
Duterte had earlier warned that Marcos might use martial law to extend his rule, further alleging that political forces are working to eliminate Vice President Sara Duterte from the 2028 presidential race.
His comments were dismissed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin as a “tall tale” from a “tyrant who did not respect the rights of the people.” Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero also rejected Duterte’s remarks, calling them inconsistent and irrational.
“When their accusation that PBBM was a weak leader who was not in control did not fly, now they are accusing him of the exact opposite and now supposedly has dictatorial tendencies,” Escudero said.
He added that based on his experience working closely with Marcos, there was no basis for Duterte’s claim.
