VICE President Sara Duterte’s role as caretaker has changed while President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is in Laos for the ASEAN Summit. Previously, she was consistently named as caretaker during the President’s trips abroad, including state visits to Vietnam, Germany, and the Czech Republic.
This shift in caretaker arrangements highlights the evolving dynamic between these two prominent figures in Philippine politics.
While President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is in Laos for the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, and Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla have been designated as caretakers, according to Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Cesar Chavez.
This marks a departure from previous instances where Vice President Sara Duterte was included as a caretaker during the President’s absences. Duterte was previously a consistent caretaker during Marcos Jr.’s state, official, and working visits to other countries.
It’s worth noting that Duterte and Marcos Jr. were running mates in the 2022 elections. However, their relationship has reportedly soured, with Duterte stating that she was never friends with Marcos Jr.
This change in caretaker arrangements adds another layer to the evolving dynamic between the two prominent figures in Philippine politics.
