Malacañang on Friday dismissed as a waste of time fresh allegations raised by Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste, saying President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his administration remain focused on more pressing national concerns, particularly strengthening the economy.
Her remarks came after Leviste claimed that he sought a five-month travel authority because of requests from supposed administration representatives, whom he did not name, for him to go abroad and stop releasing evidence linking government officials to anomalous projects at the Department of Public Works and Highways.
Castro said the Palace would not give weight to what she described as baseless statements, stressing that the President is preoccupied with governance and economic priorities.
“Abala po ang Pangulo at ang administrasyong ito sa mas mahahalagang isyu ng bayan. Tutok si Pangulong Marcos Jr. para iangat ang ekonomiya ng bansa. Hindi namin binibigyang halaga ang pahayag na walang kabuluhan. Sayang lang ang oras,” Castro said in a text message to Palace reporters.
(The President and this administration are focusing on the more important issues of the nation. President Marcos Jr. is focused on lifting the country’s economy. We do not value statements that are meaningless. It’s a waste of time.)
In his statement, Leviste said his request for travel authority, which covers nearly 20 countries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America, did not mean he would be out of the country for the entire period and insisted he would make himself available should Congress invite him to testify.
“I will be present at any opportunity that Congress gives me to speak on any issue, as long as I am asked or allowed,” Leviste said.
Castro reiterated that the administration would not be distracted by claims it considers unfounded, emphasizing that government efforts remain centered on economic growth and addressing the country’s pressing challenges.
