Castro: VP Succession Claim 'Absolutely Delusional'

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro on Thursday dismissed claims that Vice President Sara Duterte is prepared to assume the presidency, calling the assertion "absolutely delusional." The remark came after Duterte's lawyer stated that the vice president was ready to take over the presidency if President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. steps down. "Kahapon ko pa po sinabi, it is absolutely delusional," Castro told reporters when asked if the Palace was taking the claim seriously. The statement appears to be an effort to quell concerns about the stability of the current administration amid speculation of a potential succession scenario. Under the Philippine Constitution, the vice president succeeds the president in case of death, resignation, or removal from office. However, the dynamics within the Marcos Jr. administration and the Vice President's position have been subjects of speculation. Castro's statement suggests that the Office of the President is confident in the smooth functioning of the current administration and aims to dispel such rumors. However, it remains to be seen if this will completely quiet discussions about the administration's stability and future political developments.