Malacañang on Wednesday reiterated President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for all public servants, particularly those in the Executive Department, to focus on their responsibilities and refrain from engaging in political theatrics or personal agendas.
“The President knows his direction. He knows what needs to be done. That is what he expects from all public servants, to work, not to engage in politics,” said Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro in a media briefing.
“His instructions to us are clear: work and avoid politicking,” Castro said.
Castro said the administration’s focus remains on delivering essential services to Filipinos, citing recent initiatives led by Mr. Marcos as proof of his dedication to governance.
“Just earlier, the President spearheaded the distribution of 387 ambulances to various local government units across the country,” she said.
“You’ve also seen how he continues to support the agriculture and fisheries sectors, ensuring that farmers and fisherfolk benefit from government aid,” she added.
She emphasized that President Marcos has not been idle or distracted from the country’s pressing needs.
“The President does not waste time. He is focused on his job and on helping the people,” Castro said.
When asked about Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent statement that she was merely responding to supposed attacks from the administration, Castro said the Vice President should re-examine her statements.
“She said she was just reacting to attacks from the Marcos administration. But was the launch of the P20-rice project an attack against her?” Castro asked.
“Yet she criticized it, along with several other programs of the administration that have nothing to do with her office,” she added.
The P20-rice program, a flagship initiative of the President aimed at lowering the price of rice through subsidies and improved distribution, was publicly questioned by Duterte in previous interviews.
Castro also commented on Duterte’s current whereabouts.
“Where is the Vice President now? She’s in The Hague. And as far as we know, she’ll be there until July 23,” Castro said.
Without elaborating further on Duterte’s trip, Castro drew a contrast between the Vice President’s overseas stay and the President’s local engagements.
“The President is action-oriented, not on vacation,” she said.
