Acidre condemns Vice President Duterte’s intervention, recent actions

TINGOG Party-list Representative Jude Acidre has raised serious concerns regarding Vice President Sara Duterte’s intervention in the lawful transfer of Atty. Zuleika Lopez and her recent actions, describing them as a threat to democratic institutions and a potential violation of her constitutional duties.

“Vice President Sara Duterte’s intervention in the lawful transfer of Atty. Zuleika Lopez, including her decision to act as legal counsel and obstruct the process, disrupted established protocols and undermined the authority of the House of Representatives,” Acidre stated. “The presence of unauthorized armed personnel and the subsequent lockdown of the House premises posed serious security risks and delayed the execution of a lawful order.”

Acidre further emphasized the gravity of the Vice President’s actions, particularly her threats against the nation’s highest leaders. “These actions, coupled with the threats made by the Vice President against President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, First Lady Liza Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez, constitute a clear and present danger to the Republic. They destabilize our democratic institutions and reflect a betrayal of the constitutional oath to uphold and protect the Constitution. These actions warrant a serious examination of potential grounds for impeachment,” he said.

The congressman also urged the Vice President to prioritize accountability over theatrics. “Instead of resorting to threats, intimidation, and political theatrics, the Vice President should demonstrate accountability and respect for the rule of law by appearing before Congress to address the public’s concerns regarding the disbursement and utilization of over ₱612.5 million in confidential funds allocated to the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education,” Acidre added. “Filipinos deserve transparency and clarity regarding these significant resources.”

Acidre reminded public officials of their duty to the Filipino people. “Public office is a public trust. Empty rhetoric and divisive posturing do nothing to advance the interests of the Filipino people. They only deepen divisions and distract from the pressing challenges we face as a nation,” he explained.

He concluded with a call for unity and responsible leadership. “It is essential that our leaders put the interests of the nation above personal or political ambitions and focus on building a future that serves all Filipinos,” Acidre said.