Marcos says working relationship with Sara Duterte not affected after Liza's comments on VP
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s working relationship with Vice President Sara Duterte will not be affected after First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos aired her grievances against the latter.
The president told reporters on April 23 that Duterte will also not be replaced as the Department of Education Secretary.
"Why? I don't see the reason behind that (replacing Duterte in the Cabinet)," he said.
Marcos added that his initial reaction to his wife's sentiments was that he felt "lucky."
"My first reaction is what a lucky husband I am that I have a wife na very protective sa'kin," he continued. "Na may nakita na 'di magandang sinabi sa'kin ay iyan talagang she gets very upset and I guess we cannot blame her."
On April 19, Liza talked with journalist Anthony Taberna about the supposed rift between the Marcos and Duterte families. She said that she got hurt when the VP allegedly laughed at her husband being called "bangag" or high on drugs during a January prayer rally in Davao City.
Asked about a chance for their reconciliation, the first lady said Duterte's already a "bad shot."
Meanwhile, Duterte responded to this by saying that Liza's sentiments are not part of her mandate and added that a private discussion with Marcos would move the issue forward.
Marcos said he would talk to Duterte about the issue and assured the public that their working relationship remains as is.
"It will not affect our working relationship with the Vice President, Secretary of Education. I think she also as a wife, understands how the first lady feels when you have to sit there and listen to these attacks that are being made against your husband."
The president also assured that Duterte won't be replaced and said that Secretaries will only be relieved from duty if they don't do their job, are sick, incapable, or corrupt. "Hindi naman ganun si Inday Sara."
"Other things are not part of the discussion," Marcos said.
