Vice President Sara Duterte Moves Into Brother’s Office for Public Service Support
Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte announced that Vice President Sara Duterte will use his House of Representatives office for an indefinite period. He made this decision to help her oversee matters related to her detained chief of staff.
Rep. Duterte informed the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability that his sister’s temporary stay will assist in her visits to Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez and other personnel currently held under the House Sergeant-at-Arms.
“I allowed Vice President Duterte to use my office to continue her duties without interruption,” he explained. He emphasized that the office is not just for him but for public service.
Rep. Duterte believes that his office should be open to anyone working for the country’s welfare. He reassured his constituents that the office will remain a venue for public service, transcending personal interests.
Interview with Rep. Paolo Duterte on Vice President Sara Duterte’s Temporary Office Use
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Rep. Duterte. Can you explain why you’ve decided to let Vice President Sara Duterte use your office in the House of Representatives for an indefinite period?
Rep. Paolo Duterte: Thank you for having me. My decision to allow Vice President Duterte to use my office is rooted in the need to ensure she can effectively oversee her responsibilities, particularly regarding the situation involving her detained chief of staff. This is a challenging time, and she needs to be able to conduct her duties without unnecessary interruptions.
Interviewer: You mentioned public service as a priority. How does this arrangement reflect your views on the role of legislative offices?
Rep. Paolo Duterte: I strongly believe that legislative offices are not merely personal spaces; they are extensions of our commitment to public service. My office is open to anyone who is working toward the welfare of our country. By allowing the Vice President to utilize my office, I am prioritizing our constituents and, ultimately, the nation’s interests over any personal perspective.
Interviewer: What assurance do you have for your constituents regarding this arrangement?
Rep. Paolo Duterte: I want to reassure my constituents that this office will remain a venue for public service. I trust they understand the broader implications of this decision. Public service is temporary, and we should utilize our resources to benefit the populace, not for private gain. I am committed to maintaining the integrity of our office during this time.
Interviewer: There have been discussions about the request for Vice President Duterte to leave after 10 p.m. but her choice to remain. How do you view this decision?
Rep. Paolo Duterte: The Vice President’s decision to stay reflects her commitment to her duties and to those she serves. It illustrates the importance of responsiveness to urgent matters. We are all here to work diligently for what’s best for our constituents and the country.
Interviewer: In light of this arrangement, can you confirm that there will be no illegal actions occurring during this period?
Rep. Paolo Duterte: Absolutely. I ensure that everything remains transparent and legal within this arrangement. This decision stands as a testament to our commitment to public service. We are prioritizing the nation’s needs. Together, we must continue to focus on what truly matters for our citizens.
Interviewer: Thank you for this insightful discussion, Rep. Duterte. Is there a final message you’d like to share?
Rep. Paolo Duterte: I appreciate having the opportunity to discuss this decision. I urge everyone to keep in mind that we are all working toward a common goal: the welfare of our nation. Let’s stay united in prioritizing the needs of our country above all else. Thank you.
He stated that public service is a temporary role, and offices should benefit the public. Rep. Duterte trusts that his constituents appreciate this arrangement, knowing his office supports broader national interests.
He ensured that no illegal actions will occur during this time. His decision reflects a commitment to prioritizing public service over personal gain. “Together, let us continue prioritizing the needs of the nation,” he urged.
House Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. and others reported that the House Sergeant-at-Arms requested Vice President Duterte to leave after 10 p.m., but she decided to stay.