Malacañang has rejected Vice President Sara Duterte’s latest allegations against the Marcos administration, calling her claims groundless as the political dispute between the two camps continues amid her ongoing impeachment trial.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had dismissed Duterte’s accusations as “nonsense” and “fake news.” The President’s response came after Duterte accused the administration of intensifying efforts to bring her down, pursue Charter change, prevent the 2028 elections and remain in power.
Duterte made the accusations while denying allegations from Rodolfo Gracioso Jr., a former security officer of then-House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, who claimed that he delivered more than P2 billion in cash to the Vice President, her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and her brother, Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte.
The Vice President described the allegations as part of an effort to undermine her and revive what she called a faltering impeachment case. The Senate is currently hearing the impeachment complaint, which includes allegations involving unexplained wealth, discrepancies in financial disclosures and threats against Marcos and his family.
The Palace has repeatedly challenged Duterte to address accusations against her with evidence. Castro previously said the Vice President should respond to allegations with proof rather than redirecting them toward the administration.
Marcos also publicly reacted to Duterte’s claim that the administration was seeking to prevent the 2028 elections. On September 28, he laughed when asked about the allegation but did not provide a detailed response.
The exchange adds another layer to the continuing political confrontation between Marcos and Duterte, with both sides making competing claims as the Senate impeachment proceedings move forward.
