MALACANANG on Monday threw its full support behind Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro Jr.’s statement urging government officials who take China’s side in West Philippine Sea disputes to step down from their positions.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro affirmed the administration’s endorsement during a press briefing, stating that President Marcos and his Cabinet see nothing improper about Teodoro’s call. “We don’t see anything wrong with it.
The President and the administration see nothing wrong with what Secretary Gibo Teodoro said. It is an expression of love for our country,” Castro emphasized.
Castro also addressed the criticism raised by Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, who accused Teodoro of “demonizing China” and acting as though he were imposing a loyalty test.
The Palace official described Duterte’s remarks as “very alarming,” stressing that the issue is not about loyalty to any individual but about allegiance to the nation. “What we’re talking about here are Filipinos. A Filipino’s heart should belong only to the Philippines. This is not about loyalty. Every Filipino’s heart, convictions, and the cause they fight for should be the Philippines alone,” she declared.
The administration’s unified stance underscores its firm position on defending Philippine sovereign rights amid competing claims in the West Philippine Sea.
Teodoro’s original statement and Malacañang’s subsequent endorsement make clear that public officials are expected to uphold the country’s national interest above all else. The exchange also highlights deepening divisions among political leaders over how the Philippines should engage with China amid ongoing maritime tensions in the region.
metrosundaily
