Former President Rodrigo Duterte (INQUIRER file photo / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE)
MANILA, Philippines — Former President Rodrigo Duterte should be mindful of his criticisms and accusations against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr, or this can “send the wrong signal” to the local and international community, a lawmaker said.
In a press conference on Thursday, Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo 1st District Representative Janette Garin also reminded the former Chief Executive of “responsibility and accountability,” and that his words “carry weight and influence public perception.”
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“I think, with due respect to former President Duterte, he needs to decipher the proper words to say. Even when he was the president, sometimes, he would make candid jokes, and he forgets that his words become official statements because of his stature as an official,” Garin recalled.
The lawmaker’s reaction came after Duterte insinuated that Marcos was merely indulging in leisurely travels during his trips abroad.
Garin said the former leader should be mindful of the timing of his jokes.
“He has the right to say those things, but the question boils down to whether it’s right or wrong. Even if he’s joking, the bigger impact of his words might not be good,” she noted.
“Because whether you are supportive of the administration or you are against the administration, the important thing is you are a former president. Every word you say as a former president impacts your people,” Garin further said.
She also pointed out that remarks being uttered by Duterte can diminish the respect of other countries for the Philippines.
On Wednesday, other lawmakers also maintained that political amendments are not part of the economic Charter change.
They expressed their views after Duterte claimed that Congress’ move is meant for Marcos’ term extension.
They likewise reiterated that the amendment would not extend to political revisions, noting that it was never discussed in either the Senate or the House committee hearings.