VP Duterte told to use position, resources ‘constructively’

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte

MANILA, Philippines —  House of Representatives Assistant Majority Leader and Taguig 2nd District Rep. Pammy Zamora urged Vice President Sara Duterte on Saturday to prioritize collaboration over criticism.

In a statement, Zamora said that Duterte’s recent criticism of issues, from flood control projects to her reduced security detail  is “more polarizing than productive.”

“On flood control, let’s not forget that the Dutertes were in full control for 6 years. How can they be sidelined for crucial infra projects? On the matter of her security entourage, the PNP chief has said she still retains almost 390 security personnel. I doubt anyone would still find that inadequate,” said the lawmaker.

“All of us in the House are ready to work hand in hand with all officials whose input are productive to the national agenda. Just like what Senate President Escudero said, I also encourage the Vice President to constructively use her position and resources,” she added.

On Friday, Senate President Francis Escudero said he also found Duterte’s rant on societal problems “perplexing.”

Escudero said that the vice president’s criticism—specifically, of the current administration’s lack of a master plan against flooding—is somewhat confusing because, according to him, her father did not come up with one such strategy during his six years in power.