Malacañang rebuked Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte’s recent criticisms of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., calling his remarks unsurprising and misinformed.
In a media briefing on Wednesday, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro responded to Mayor Duterte’s accusation that President Marcos is a “liar” and a “weak” leader.
The mayor made comments in reaction to the President’s earlier statements about being open to reconciliation with the Duterte family and other critics.
“Is Mayor Baste Duterte still being noticed for what he says?” said Castro, downplaying the mayor’s comments.
“Can we expect any kind words from him for the President? That kind of reaction was expected,” she added.
Castro clarified that the President never claimed he was offering reconciliation, but rather, expressed openness to it—a key distinction she said the mayor may have misunderstood.
“I hope he listened carefully to every word that came from the President,” she said.
“Mr. Anthony Taberna asked her if he’s open to reconciliation… There’s a big difference between being open to reconciliation and offering reconciliation,” Castro added.
Castro emphasized that President Marcos, as head of state, must be open to reconciliation, not only with the Dutertes, but with anyone who may oppose his policies.
She described such openness as a hallmark of a responsible leader.
On the issue of political strength, Mayor Duterte cited the administration’s failure to deliver a 12-0 sweep in the recent midterm elections, calling the President “weak” and “arrogant.”
Castro rejected this narrative, pointing out that six candidates from the Marcos-aligned “Alyansa” coalition secured Senate seats, while many administration allies also won in the House of Representatives and in local races.
“Six won in the Alliance—that’s not a bad number.,” Castro said.
“So, what does the President have to boast about? Six people won against him and many others did so locally and in the House,” she added.
She further questioned the basis of Mayor Duterte’s criticisms, suggesting he may be surrounded by individuals spreading misinformation.
“It is therefore possible that Mayor Baste did not understand the President’s hint… or he is surrounded by fake news peddlers, she said. That is pitiful,” Castro said.
