Marcos Not Resigning, Palace Says Amid VP Sara Duterte's 'Readiness' to Replace Him

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has categorically denied any plans for President Marcos to step down, in response to statements from the camp of Vice President Sara Duterte indicating readiness to take over the presidency. Presidential press officer Claire Castro told GMA News, "First of all, no one is going to resign." The statement was issued to counter claims by Duterte’s spokesperson, Paolo Panelo, who had defended the Vice President against criticisms that her call for Marcos to resign was self-serving, as she would benefit from it. "That’s just their wish, because the President is fulfilling his duties and working for the country, the nation and the people. So, if they wish for the President to resign, I’m sorry," Castro added. She also refuted allegations from the Duterte camp that the administration is controlling senators, the police, and other government officials in connection with the Vice President’s impeachment case. Castro stated that government agencies are simply carrying out their respective mandates. Panelo had earlier asserted that Duterte was elected Vice President "so, she was actually the one the people voted for to replace the President if he would resign. So, I don’t think this is self-serving or, as some might say, a conflict of interest." He added, "Because for her and for many Filipinos, it’s not really good for the country for the President to remain in office." The Vice President has declared her candidacy for the 2028 presidential elections and has branded Marcos as the "problem of the nation," accusing his administration of corruption, abuse, and political harassment amid cases filed against her and her family members. At a recent rally, she urged supporters, "Let’s continue the clamor for our nation’s problem to leave, whose name is Bongbong Marcos. Resign! Leave!" In response to Duterte’s attacks, President Marcos stated during an interview in New Delhi, India, last week after attending the 18th BRICS Summit, "If she feels very angry, I suppose, with what’s happening to her, and I am the target of that anger, or the main target of that anger, what can I do? You cannot force anyone to love you." This exchange highlights rising political tensions in the Philippines, potentially signaling a power struggle as the 2028 elections approach.