Sara Duterte Camp: Claire Castro 'Hard to Take Seriously'

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte’s new spokesperson, Salvador Paolo Panelo Jr., on Wednesday dismissed the claim that he was appointed to counter Palace Undersecretary Claire Castro, whom he described as “hard to take seriously.” “I have no intention of responding to every statement she makes because we only need to address criticisms that,” Panelo said. Castro had reportedly expressed concerns that the Vice Presidential office was becoming “politicized,” fueling speculation that Panelo’s appointment was intended to counter her. However, Panelo clarified that his appointment was not a retaliatory measure against Castro.