‘Baste’s bashing of Marcos baseless, disrespectful’

MANILA, Philippines — Deputy Speaker David Suarez and other leaders of the House of Representatives yesterday lashed back at Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, saying his call for the resignation of President Marcos is uncalled for, baseless and, worse, disrespectful.

In a speech at the Hakbang ug Maisug Leaders Forum in Davao City on Sunday, Mayor Duterte – youngest son of former president Rodrigo Duterte – asked Marcos to step down from office, accusing him of being lazy and lacking compassion.

“That mention in Davao calling for his resignation I think is totally disrespectful of the man, given the position that he holds and… has no basis whatsoever,” Suarez said.

He noted that in the past two years, the Filipino people have seen the performance of the President, particularly in managing and revitalizing the economy as the country emerged from the coronavirus pandemic.

In addition, Suarez said the activities of Marcos, showing his visits to various parts of the country to check on government projects or extend assistance to disaster victims, as well as his meetings with the Cabinet, show his dedication to serving the people.

“We have seen his commitment to the Filipino people,” Suarez said.

Rizal 1st District Rep. Michael John Duavit said that while he respects everyone’s right to express his opinion, he does not share the Davao mayor’s views.

“Everybody’s got a right to an opinion, everybody’s got a right to express it. I’ll just express mine: I disagree, as simple as that,” he said.

Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. also said the reasons the younger Duterte raised in his call for the resignation of Marcos are not supported by facts.

“What I can say is that we have to respect the Office of the President. That’s why we’re wondering why President BBM is being asked to resign… there’s no basis,” he said.

Suarez reiterated that amid such accusations, the House remains unwavering in its support for President Marcos.

“It’s unequivocal,” he said.

The House unanimously adopted on Monday a resolution expressing its strong and unqualified support for the leadership of the President.

Gonzales added the mayor’s call can only mean