MANILA, Philippines — Outgoing Education Secretary and Vice President Sara Duterte did not show up at the opening of the 64th Palarong Pambansa on Tuesday.
READ: Duterte says she ‘prays’ for DepEd’s success
Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. graced the event.
The grand opening ceremony of the annual event was supposed to be one of Duterte’s final appearances as chief of the Department of Education (DepEd) after she resigned on June 19.
She did not provide a definite reason for stepping down and only explained that her action was not a sign of weakness, as it was stirred by compassion for teachers and students.
Her resignation will be effective on July 19.
Before the ceremony, Duterte attended the Learners’ Convergence Opening in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu the same day.
Also on the same day, Duterte visited athletes who won’t be able to participate in the Palarong Pambansa in Cebu City Medical Center.
She also previously confirmed that she will attend the Palaro’s opening ceremony even after she has resigned.
READ: VP Sara to attend Palarong Pambansa 2024 opening event
INQUIRER.net has asked the Office of the Vice President for comment on Duterte’s absence but has yet to receive a response as of this writing.