President Marcos slams ‘toxic politics’

MANILA, Philippines — Tens of thousands of people attended the kick-off rally for President Marcos’ governance branding “Bagong Pilipinas” yesterday in a show of force amid political bickering within the administration.

In his speech, the President slammed “toxic politics” and negativity and reiterated his call for unity in the presence of personalities who made headlines recently due to their alleged differences.

He also highlighted the need for change in the government, reminding its workers that they are the “servants of the people,” not their “lords.”

Officials estimated that about 400,000 people flocked to the Quirino Grandstand in Manila to join the rally filled with speeches trumpeting state programs and calling for “a new Filipino” – described by a Palace statement as one who pursues excellence, innovation and progress.

The rally also featured several entertainment numbers and offered a service fair that brought together various government programs in a one-stop shop.

Clad in white polo shirt with the Bagong Pilipinas logo, Marcos arrived with First Lady Liza Marcos at 6:05 p.m.

The rally was attended by local executives, barangay officials, lawmakers, members of the uniformed services and employees from various state agencies.

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte was present during the event and said at the pre-rally stage that the Department of Education (DepEd) is one with other agencies in supporting the Bagong Pilipinas campaign.

“The entire DepEd is one (with the administration) in promoting the eight-point Socioeconomic Agenda of the Marcos administration for changing the lives of Filipinos,” she said.

According to her, DepEd’s contribution to the campaign is molding students who are studying under the Matatag curriculum.

Duterte was recently subjected to scrutiny after lawmakers who are allies of the administration realigned the confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President and DepEd.

The realignment of the combined P650-million confidential funds of the offices she is heading to security agencies dealing with the West Philippine Sea row triggered speculations that the Marcos-led UniTeam coalition was unraveling.

Rumors of