President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday repeated his warning to all government officials not to make deals or even discuss projects with any member of the “First Family” or any of his relatives or face being fired from their posts.
“You do not use it in a democratic country. Do not use First Family,” Duterte said during the inauguration of the Davao Bridge.
“There is no such thing as a first family. All Filipinos are first family. And it is in utter bad taste to use it.”
Duterte also announced he would fire another government official because of graft and corruption.
Duterte will be visiting South Korea on June 3 to 5 to meet with Korean President Moon Jae-In to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral trade.
Malacañang said this would be Duterte’s first visit to South Korea as President. He had also visited South Korea twice as mayor of Davao City.
In his speech, Duterte said Transportation Assistant Secretary Mark Tolentino was fired for dealing with his sister.
“You have never heard me say Malacañang Palace. I just say my office. See me at my office. Go to my office,” he said.
Duterte had repeatedly said government officials should not talk to him or his relatives to lobby for government projects.
Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said the firing of Tolentino should serve as a warning to other government officials.
“I told you before, you don’t know me, do not talk to anybody especially my family, my wife, my daughter, my sons or any relatives of mine,” Duterte said.
He said he might fire another government official when he returns to Malacañang next week and sadly announced the appointee was a friend.