By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio revealed that Senator Imee Marcos has become “cold” following her recent controversial press conference, during which she criticized the Marcos family.
When asked if she had spoken with Senator Imee, Duterte-Carpio mentioned that she had texted the senator, but received a distant response.
“After the press conference, I texted her, and she was cold—very cold. She even told a mutual friend of ours that she was upset with me and with BBM,” Duterte-Carpio said.
“I told our mutual friend to pass on a message: ‘Tell her not to be angry with me and BBM; she should be upset with Liza and Martin instead,'” she added.
Despite the tension, the Vice President still considers Senator Imee a “friend” and maintains that she did not attack her.
Duterte-Carpio previously claimed that it was Senator Imee Marcos who urged her to run for Vice President as PBBM’s running mate in order to secure victory against Leni Robredo in the 2022 elections.
ia/mnm
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio sent a letter on Wednesday (18 Sept 2024) to Dr. Willie Ong, offering her support and wishing him a speedy recovery following his diagnosis of sarcoma.
“I extend my heartfelt support and wish you a swift and complete recovery,” Duterte-Carpio expressed in her letter.
“Your courage and optimism as you’ve openly shared your diagnosis and battle with sarcoma have deeply moved us all. Your strength and positive outlook in the face of such adversity are truly inspiring,” she added.
The Vice President also acknowledged Ong’s ongoing dedication to promoting health and wellness, which continues to be admired by many.
“My mother, Elizabeth, regularly watches your YouTube videos and prays for your healing. We stand with you in solidarity during this difficult time.”
Last Saturday, Ong announced that doctors discovered a 16 x 13 x 12-centimeter sarcoma in his abdomen.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, sarcomas are rare cancers that develop in bones and soft tissues, including fat, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, deep skin layers, and fibrous tissues.
In response, Ong expressed his gratitude for Duterte-Carpio’s kind message.
“Thank you for the kind words, VP Sara. I don’t know why, but I’m deeply touched by your sincere message,” Ong said.
Sarcoma is a type of cancer that originates in the connective tissues of the body, such as bones, muscles, fat, blood vessels, nerves, and fibrous tissues (like tendons and ligaments). Sarcomas are relatively rare and can occur anywhere in the body.
ia/mnm
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — After waiting for an hour, Vice President Sara Duterte did not show up Tuesday (10 Sept 2024) during the resumption of the House of Representatives deliberation on her office’s proposed P2.03-billion budget for 2025.
This prompted ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro to tag VP Sara “bratinella to the max” for snubbing the resumption of the House panel hearing.
Manila Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. called out VP Sara and her office for “insulting” the House of Representatives.
“She is insulting this institution… I do not care even if she is the vice president. I will not allow Congress to be insulted by any agency,” Abante blurted out.
He pointed out that the lawmakers are faced with a “blank wall” due to the absence of VP Sara or any OVP representative.
“We extended courtesy by waiting for one hour,” an exasperated Committee Senior Vice Chairperson Rep. Stella Quimbo said.
“Ayaw matanong. Umiiwas sa tanong,” Quimbo noted.
In a letter to House Speaker Martin Romualdez, VP Duterte said the Office of the Vice President (OVP) had submitted the necessary documents and previously articulated position on issues regarding its budget.
“We defer entirely to the discretion and judgment of the committee regarding our proposed budget for the incoming year,” the Vice President tersely stated in her letter.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio has called on the public to direct their donations to those affected by Tropical Storm Enteng rather than sending them to the Office of the Vice President (OVP).
Following the widespread impact of ‘Enteng,’ which has affected thousands nationwide, Duterte-Carpio made the appeal to ensure aid reaches those in immediate need.
“We deeply appreciate your generosity and willingness to support the Office of the Vice President (OVP). Your support not only warms our hearts but also demonstrates your commitment to our causes,” Duterte-Carpio said in a statement on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.
“However, given the devastation caused by ‘Enteng,’ we encourage you to direct your donations to fellow Filipinos who are currently suffering from the heavy rains and flooding. Any assistance will greatly help ease their hardships and aid in their recovery,” she added.
The Vice President expressed gratitude to those who wished to contribute to the OVP and assured that her office will continue its ongoing projects.
Meanwhile, classes remain suspended in some areas due to ‘Enteng.’ President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos has assured that the government is managing the situation effectively and has established standard operating procedures for such emergencies.
ia/mnm
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Imee Marcos has defended Vice President Sara Duterte on her travel amid the onslaught of Typhoon Carina in the country.
“Matagal ng plano ‘yun at hindi naman niya alam na may bagyo. Pambihira naman,” Marcos said.
“Nakita naman natin ang unang umaksyon ang OVP. Sa totoo lang, nagkalat na ‘yung mga naka-preposition na pagkain, gamot, damit, ikinalat na sa iba’t ibang lugar. Palagay ko, talagang nakatutok naman sila,” the senator added.
thanks The Office of the Vice President explained that Duterte’s departure received the necessary approvals, as evidenced by the travel authority issued by the Office of the President.
Metro Manila is one of the areas severely affected by heavy rains.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Short of saying that his daughter is a liar, former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has rebuffed Vice President Sara Duterte for announcing that he and his two sons — Davao City Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte and Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte — will be running for senator in 2025.
“Maniwala kayo kay Inday? I-jamming ka niyan nang husto… Saan ka nakakita, tatay dalawang anak magtakbo [sa Senado]… Wag kayong kumagat kay Inday kasi ‘yan si Inday kagaya ko rin ‘yan,” the Duterte patriarch quipped.
Political pundits told Maharlika NuMedia that it was only a bluff when VP Sara claimed that it’s Baste who’s gunning for the presidency in 2028.
“Si Inday pa rin ang tatakbo pagka-presidente sa 2028,” they chorused.
On Sunday (30 June 2024), Duterte told reporters in Tacloban City not to believe his daughter’s statement about his supposed political plans.
He admitted that it would be “bizarre” if he were to be in the Senate alongside Pulong and Baste.
“Anong gagawin namin sa Senate…Anong gagawin namin doon?” Duterte said.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio confirmed on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, that three members of the Duterte family will be running for Senate seats in the 2025 midterm elections.
Duterte-Carpio announced that her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte, and Davao First District Representative Paolo Duterte are all set to vie for Senate positions.
“Lahat sila raring na tumakbo eh. Si PRD ay senator, iyong kuya ko si Paolo Congressman ngayon senator at si Sebastian Duterte,” she said.
“Yes, tatlo ang Duterte for senator. Yes, confirmed iyan,” the Vice President added.
Duterte-Carpio shared that she received this information from her mother and also disclosed that Baste Duterte plans to run for President in 2028.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio has confirmed her resignation on Wednesday (19 June 2024) as the Secretary of the Department of Education.
Duterte-Carpio made her confirmation during the DepEd press conference, adding that her resignation will take effect on July 19.
“Earlier today June 19, 2024, I sought an audience with the president and tendered my resignation as the Secretary of Education effective July 19, 2024. I have given my 30-day notice to ensure the proper and orderly transition for the benefit of the next secretary,” she said.
The Vice President clarified that her resignation is not a sign of “weakness” but due to “true concern” for teachers and Filipino youth.
“Mga kababayan, ang aking pagbibitiw ay hindi lulan ng kahinaan kundi dala ng tunay na malasakit para sa ating mga guro at kabataang Pilipino. Bagama’t hindi ako magpapatuloy na mamamahala sa Kagawaran patuloy pa rin nating itataguyod ang kalidad ng edukasyon na nararapat para sa Pilipino,” Duterte-Carpio said.
“Hindi man ako ang tumatayong Kalihim ng Edukasyon, mananatili akong isang ina, isang ina, nagmamatyag at titindig para sa kapakanan ng bawat guro at bawat mag-aaral sa Pilipinas para sa isang matatag na Pilipinas,” she added.
Malacañang first announced the resignation of Duterte-Carpio member of the Cabinet, DepEd Secretary, and Vice Chairperson of the NTF-ELCAC.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Malacañang confirmed on Wednesday afternoon (June 19, 2024) that Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio has resigned from her position as Secretary of the Department of Education.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Duterte-Carpio went to Malacañang on Wednesday to tender her resignation.
“At 2:21 PM today, June 19, 2024, Vice President Sara Z. Duterte went to Malacañang and tendered her resignation as a member of the Cabinet, Secretary of the Department of Education, and Vice Chairperson of the NTF-ELCAC, effective today, July 19, 2024,” the PCO stated.
The PCO noted that she declined to provide a reason for her resignation.
Meanwhile, Malacañang stated that she would continue to serve as Vice President and thanked her for her service.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio paid tribute to workers on Labor Day, commending their diligence and dedication, and highlighting their crucial role in the nation’s development.
“To every OFW, medical and security front liner, community worker, educator, and all those working across public and private sectors, your contributions are recognized and valued,” Duterte-Carpio expressed.
“You are the true heroes of modern times. Let us continue towards a prosperous future,” she added.
This year marks the celebration of the 122nd Labor Day in the country.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) organized job fairs across 97 locations nationwide and set up ‘Kadiwa ng Pangulo’ stalls offering affordable rice, fruits, and vegetables to Filipinos on May 1.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Who’s afraid of the feisty Vice President Sara Duterte?
Apparently, not Parañaque City’s 2nd district Representative Gus Tambunting who chairs the House committee that scrutinized the franchise of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, founding leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).
On Wednesday (13 March 2024), Tambunting denied that Quiboloy — wanted by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for alleged “conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion, and sex trafficking of children, conspiracy, and bulk cash smuggling” — is being given unfair treatment at the lower chamber.
The Parañaque City lawmaker maintained that Quiboloy is being accorded due process, contrary to the claim of VP Sara that the self-proclaimed “Appointed Son of God” is being “given unfair treatment.”
“We respect her (VP Duterte) opinion, but our topic here in Congress is the SMNI franchise,” said Tambunting, who chairs the House Committee on Legislative Franchises.
SMNI is the broadcasting arm of KOJC, although SMNI lawyers claimed that Quiboloy is not involved in its operations.
Tambunting’s committee has voted to revoke the franchise of SMNI —formally known as Swara Sug Media Corporation — over its alleged willful dissemination of false information and the transfer of ownership without congressional approval.
“This franchise was given by Congress. Kongreso rin po lang ang puwedeng bumawi po nito at iyon naman pong proseso, and as far as due process is concerned, dito po sa hearing namin, six months has been given, five months of hearing, six hearings were conducted and palagay ko mas maraming sinabi ang kampo ni SMNI kesa po sa mga Congressmen,” Tambunting explained.
He added: “Lahat po ng kanilang paliwanag ay ating pinakinggan at pinagbigyan po natin lahat ng katanungan nila.”
Quiboloy, a close friend of the Duterte political family, has been cited in contempt for skipping the hearings despite a subpoena against him.
Last Friday (8 March 2024), SMNI announced former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s appointment as KOJC administrator.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Saying it’s “silly,” former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has denied the accusation by a former landscaper Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy that he and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, once received firearms from the controversial televangelist.
Vice President Duterte, on the other hand, had dismissed the claim as mere “attacks” against her, possibly by those who want to be the next president of the country, apparently referring to Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez who heads the House of Representatives that stripped the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) of P650 million total of confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) in the proposed 2024 budget.
“Kami magtanggap ng baril kay Pastor Apollo Quiboloy? Ako pa mag-deliver sa kaniya ng kanyon bukas, o machine gun,” Duterte blurted out at a press conference in Davao City on Tuesday night, as reported by GMA-7 Unang Balita on Wednesday.
A certain “Rene” who claimed to be a former landscaper of Quiboloy testified before a Senate committee on February 19 that he once witnessed FPRRD and VP Sara receiving “bags of guns” from the controversial religious leader in Davao City.
“Bakit pa si Pastor ang magbigay ng baril sa akin? Saan siya magkuha? Kung magsabi siya wala siyang baril, bigyan ko siya,” the feisty former president said.
The Senate is now investigating Quiboloy and KOJC in aid of legislation for alleged sexual abuses and human trafficking activities.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Saying that her name was only being dragged into the “Tokhang'” issue so that she would be included in the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation, Vice President Sara Duterte has challenged confessed member of the original Davao Death Squad (DDS) retired Senior Police Officer Arturo “Arthur” Lascañas to file a murder case against her before a Philippine court.
At the same time, the feisty Vice President said she has no plans to file a case against Lascañas, who accused her of being the brains of “Oplan Tokhang” in Davao City.
“Wala akong balak mag-sampa ng kaso sa kanya (Lascañas). In fact, siya ‘yung tsina-challenge ko na mag-sampa ng kaso sa akin ng murder doon sa Pilipinas,” VP Duterte told reporters in a chance interview in Malaysia.
Lascañas claimed to have submitted a 186-page affidavit to the ICC containing information on the alleged killings perpetrated by former President Rodrigo Duterte and the involvement of his daughter Sara in the extrajudicial killings in Davao City.
“Siya (Sara Duterte) nga ang pasimuno nitong Oplan Tokhang nung naka-upo siya as mayor nung 2012 in-appoint nya si Bato Dela Rosa as chief of police ng Davao City,” said Lascañas, referring to former Davao City police chief and now Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio slammed the accusations of her alleged involvement in “Oplan Tokhang” during her term as a Davao mayor, saying that it was a “new script.”
Duterte-Carpio said that it was the first time that she was linked to the said issue.
“Bigla na lang nagkaroon ng testigo laban sa akin nang mahalal ako na Vice President. At kabilang na nga ako ngayon sa mga akusado sa International Criminal Court,” she said.
“Maliban sa tiyempo, malinaw na sadyang pinilit lang na maidugtong ang pangalan ko sa isyung ito para ako maging akusado sa ICC,” Duterte-Carpio added.
The Vice President told the witnesses to file a case against her in the Philippines.
“Wala na itong debate, sa testigo at mga tao na nakapalikod sa kanya magfile kayo ng kasong murder laban sa akin dito sa Pilipinas,” she said.
Earlier, former Davao City police Arturo Lascañas linked Duterte-Carpio to the Davao Death Squad.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Who’s afraid of Inday Sara?
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr. has displayed statesmanship despite the verbal attacks on him by former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Zimmerman Duterte as he designated Vice President Sara Duterte as the country’s caretaker while the Chief Executive is in Vietnam for a state visit.
On Monday (January 29), Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil confirmed VP Duterte’s designation as Marcos Jr. left for Hanoi.
Marcos will be in Vietnam until Tuesday (January 30).
During the previous administration of the elder Duterte, then Vice President Leni Robredo was never designated as government caretaker. Never.
Even if Robredo was the constitutional successor, Duterte would always designate his former classmate Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea to take his post while he was on a foreign trip.
Just before he boarded PR001, Marcos Jr. was seen stopping to shake VP Sara’s hand and gave her a “beso-beso” or buss on the cheek.
On Sunday night (January 28), FPRRD and Davao City Mayor Baste lambasted PBBM, calling him a drug addict and daring the President to resign “if he has no love and aspirations for the country.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio addressed her brother, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s recent call for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to resign, stating that it stemmed from a place of “brotherly love.”
In a statement released on Monday (29 Jan 2024), Duterte-Carpio expressed her interpretation of Mayor Duterte’s sentiments, “I can only surmise that Mayor Sebastian Duterte is driven by brotherly love, combined with a shared sentiment that I do not deserve the disparaging treatment I am receiving from some factions within the President’s inner circle.”
During a forum in Davao City on Sunday, Mayor Duterte remarked, “Mr. President, if you lack love and aspirations for your country, resign.”
He further criticized the President, stating, “You are lazy and lack compassion… They prioritize politics and the preservation of their political lives over their duties to the people. They are neglecting their responsibilities.”
Meanwhile, Duterte-Carpio expressed her continued belief in the public’s vote as a bestowed “trust.”
“I believe that the people’s vote is a manifestation of trust that I will work and serve solely for the Filipino people. Along with this trust comes the confidence that I can withstand any attacks, black propaganda, character assassination, and other challenges hurled at my person,” she asserted.
Acknowledging the difficulties, she added, “While not easy, I draw strength and inspiration from the trust bestowed upon me by our fellow countrymen. I take heart in the people’s confidence in my ability to work and thrive amidst chaos.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio urged the public to remember the heroism and sacrifice of the 44 members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF).
The 44 members were killed in a firefight in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in January 25, 2015.
In her message, she said that the dedication and love for the people of SAF 44 who gave their lives for the peace of the country cannot be compared.
“We shall forever draw inspiration from the sacrifices you made to safeguard the honor and liberty of our nation, shielding our fellow Filipinos from the threats and consequences of terrorism,” Duterte-Carpio said in a statement.
“We pledge to never forget. Together, we march onward, united by the spirit of resilience, unwavering in our pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous Philippines.”
Meanwhile, former PNP-SAF chief Getulio Napeñas Jr. said that justice has not been served to the victims.
This was his response when asked if he thinks that justice has already been served for the SAF members.
“Not yet. Was there a case filed against those people who killed the 44? Until now, not yet,” he said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio on Sunday (21 Jan 2024) called on Filipinos to maintain their unwavering devotion to God, fostering spirituality in all aspects of their lives.
In her message during the Sinulog-Sto. Niño Festival celebration, she emphasized, “Let us cherish the festival as a reflection of our prayers and dedication to the Holy Child, reinforcing a timeless tradition that forms the foundation of our identity as a people and a nation.”
Duterte-Carpio highlighted that Sinulog represents a spiritual journey marked by humility and personal transformation. She noted that the ceremonial dances and lively parades symbolize devotees’ aspirations to undergo inner change and embrace childlike modesty.
“The festival’s roots are deeply grounded in a profound respect for the Holy Child, symbolizing the strong bond between believers and the divine. At its core, Sinulog carries a deep reverence for the Holy Child, the Sto. Niño,” she added.
The Vice President emphasized that the event holds a special place in the hearts of Cebuanos, being one of the country’s most significant religious and secular gatherings.
According to the police, over 1 million people participated in the procession of Sto. Niño in Cebu.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The body language tells it all that Vice President Sara Duterte and Senator Imee Marcos are up to something big as they visited two schools in Catanduanes fueling speculations that they will be teaming up in the 2028 presidential elections, five years from now.
On Thursday, November 23, they barnstormed two public schools in Catanduanes “spreading joy and goodwill.”
“Matapos mamahagi ng ayuda at regalo para sa mga kabataan sa probinsya ng Catanduanes, binisita namin ni VP Inday Sara Duterte ang Palnab Elementary School noong Huwebes, Nov. 23,” Marcos said.
The Vice President from Davao City and the lady senator from Ilocos Norte engaged in a series of public activities, including giving aid and gifts to students.
Despite her recent denial, Duterte is expected to run for president in 2028, with Marcos as her running mate.
Ironically, Inday Sara will likely square off with Marcos’ first cousin Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
In photos shared on social media, they took part in a tree-planting activity contributing to the greenery of the school surroundings.
“Nagtanim kami ng guyabano seedlings sa paaralan at personal na kinamusta ang mga guro at mga estudyante dito,” Marcos quipped.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio will no longer pursue the request of the Office of the Vice President for P500 million in confidential and intelligence funds for 2024.
This was disclosed by Senator Sonny Angara on Thursday, saying that his office received the statement from Duterte-Carpio.
“Your honor we received a statement from the VP [and] we discussed [it] earlier. According to her, the OVP can only propose a budget to support the safe implementation of its programs to alleviate poverty and promote [the] general welfare of Filipino families,” Angara said.
“Nonetheless, they will no longer pursue the confidential and intelligence funds or the confidential funds. The reason is that it seems to be divisive, and as the VP, she swore and [took an] oath to keep the country peaceful and strong,” said the chair of the Senate Committee on Finance and sponsor of the 2024 national budget bill.
Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III commended the Vice President for her act.
“Given this manifestation of the Vice President, I commend her for now categorically stating to this House that it is not a deferral to our wisdom. She does not want it anymore,” Pimentel said.
The OVP has asked for P500-M confidential funds while the Department of Education, also headed by Duterte-Carpio, requested P150-M confidential funds.
The House of Representatives has stripped the confidential funds of five agencies and realigned the funds to security offices.
(ai/mnm)