Former Senator Leila de Lima has expressed skepticism regarding recent political announcements made by the Duterte family, questioning the sincerity of their intentions and suggesting that it may be a tactic to divert public attention.
In light of the dismissal of her drug charges, De Lima has raised concerns about the timing of the Dutertes’ revelation that they will be running for Senate seats and positioning Sebastian Duterte as a presidential candidate in 2028. She has described the announcement as potentially being a “gimmickry” and a diversive stunt, particularly following the release of the order in her case.
The Dutertes made their plans known following the resignation of Vice President Sara Duterte from the Cabinet, indicating a growing divide between her and President Marcos.
De Lima has also pondered whether the Dutertes’ pronouncement is a form of diversion, designed to redirect public attention away from the House of Representatives’ summoning of the former president and former Philippine National Police chief, now Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, in an investigation into extrajudicial killings during the previous administration’s war on drugs.
The former senator has pointed out the possibility of the announcement being a display of power and a show of force, meant to assert the continued influence of the Duterte camp amidst the current political landscape.
She further criticized the Duterte family, questioning whether they possess the ability to offer viable solutions to the country’s challenges, especially given that she believes they have contributed to these problems. In her view, the prevalence of political dynasties only exacerbates the situation.
Meanwhile, former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV has described the potential issuance of an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against former President Duterte as a “game-changer” in his political comeback.
Trillanes is waiting for the ICC to release the warrant, citing the likelihood of it happening within the next few months. He emphasized the significance of this development, particularly in relation to Duterte’s handling of the war on drugs during his time as President and Davao Mayor.
The statements made by De Lima and Trillanes reflect the growing speculation and skepticism surrounding the political future of the Duterte family, and how their actions and potential implications are being perceived by prominent figures in Philippine politics.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the unfolding developments involving the Dutertes remain a topic of considerable interest and scrutiny within the country’s political sphere.
Sources:
– Philippine Daily Inquirer
– Jose Rodel Clapano, Artemio Dumlao, Emmanuel Tupas, Daphne Galvez
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