The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) on Sunday, Nov. 24, condemned the recent outburst by Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, which it said “endangers not only the safety of our leaders but also the peace and security of the entire Filipino nation.”
Vice President Sara Duterte in a video on Saturday said “Don’t worry about my security because I’ve already talked to someone. I told him, if I get killed, kill BBM, Liza Araneta, and Martin Romualdez. No joke. No joke”.
Duterte later said it was not a threat, she only highlighted the alleged threat to her security.
The LCP, in its statement signed by its national president Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and national chairman Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, said the league categorically condemns any conduct or actions that threaten the stability of the duly constituted government led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
“The recent outburst by Vice President Sara Z. Duterte is both unbecoming of her office and reckless. Any suggestion or statement that the Vice President would be harmed and the heinous instruction of retaliation to, in turn, harm the President, the First Lady, the Speaker of the House, or any key government official is deeply irresponsible and a grave threat to our democracy and the rule of law,” the LCP said.
“Such recklessness endangers not only the safety of our leaders but also the peace and security of the entire Filipino nation,” it added.
The 149 mayor members of the LCP demand an immediate cessation of all inflammatory rhetoric and personal attacks, the statement said.
The use of public funds by the Vice President’s Office must be addressed in a manner befitting the gravity of public trust, not through accusations, name-calling, or divisive conduct, it said.
“We urge all parties involved to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect, particularly among our government officials, who represent the Filipino people,” the statement said.
“The Filipino people deserve unity and decisive action, not unnecessary and harmful bickering,” it added.
The LCP stands in steadfast support of the president, “we call on all leaders to prioritize the welfare of our citizens over personal disputes. It is imperative that government resources, energy, and focus be directed toward addressing the pressing economic and social challenges our country faces”.
The LCP members also expressed their support and prayers for the safety and protection of every public official, most especially the First Family.
“Any threats to their security will be met with the full force of the law. The League of Cities will not tolerate acts or rhetoric that sow division, incite violence, or undermine the sanctity of public service, it said.
The league said it is time for all leaders to act with wisdom, restraint, and a firm commitment to the Filipino people.
Human Rights Advocates Negros, in a statement Saturday, said “Sara Duterte should resign or the people will support actions to remove her from office. Congress’ inquiry on how government funds are disbursed and accounted for are legitimate actions. It is accountability which Sara Duterte refuses to accept”.*