VP Sara's 'Hire a Gunman' Remark Sparks Debate Amid Gun Violence Discussion

Vice President Sara Duterte's recent remarks, where she cited hiring a gunman for P5,000 as an example while discussing gun violence in the Philippines, have sparked significant debate and controversy among the public. Duterte made the statement during a protest outside the International Criminal Court (ICC), referencing the court's proceedings. She stated, "Because gun violence is so common in the Philippines. I have a husband. My husband has a mistress. I can hire a gunman for P5,000 to kill the mistress!" She used this extreme example to highlight the perceived severity of gun violence in the country and to question the ICC's ability to distinguish victims of the "drug war" from other victims. Clips of the incident quickly went viral on social media platforms. Online users reacted with a mix of shock and derision, with some questioning how common such acts might be, given the vice president's specific knowledge of the cost. Others sarcastically suggested it was a "Freudian slip," implying an unintentional revelation of her true thoughts or experiences. These comments are also being linked to ongoing impeachment complaints against her, which include allegations of her having threatened to hire individuals to kill President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos. Political commentator Jesus Falcis humorously labeled the remark a "Freudian slip." Meanwhile, Rep. Terry Ridon cautioned against normalizing violent rhetoric from government officials. He suggested that Duterte's comments might be an attempt to divert attention from the ongoing impeachment proceedings concerning her P612.5 million in confidential funds, which are currently being deliberated in the Senate. The controversy echoes the rhetoric of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, whose presidency was marked by strong anti-crime and anti-drug campaigns often accompanied by violent language and shoot-to-kill directives. His administration's actions have also drawn international scrutiny and led to proceedings before the ICC. Information source: Interaksyon Politics