July 17, 2024 - In a statement on Wednesday, Vice President Sara Duterte addressed the public uproar surrounding her decision to appoint herself as the "designated survivor" during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA). Emphatically asserting that her announcement was neither a jest nor a security threat, Duterte clarified her intentions during the Brigada Eskwela National Kickoff.
"It is my first time witnessing a Vice President being accounted for attendance in every single thing," Duterte remarked in Bisaya, highlighting the unusual scrutiny she has faced since her announcement. "This is not a joke. It is not a bomb threat. Many have missed the essence of it. If clarity is not understood initially, I question the necessity of further explanation," she added firmly.
Earlier, Duterte had indicated that she would not be attending the July 22 SONA, citing her role as the "designated survivor." This term originates from a longstanding US tradition, where a cabinet member refrains from attending the president's address to ensure continuity of government in case of a catastrophic incident affecting top leadership.
The concept of a "designated survivor" gained prominence through popular media but carries real implications for national security, as highlighted by Senator Panfilo Lacson's recent comments. Duterte's decision has sparked discussions about the need for formalizing such protocols in Philippine governance.
Notably, Duterte's resignation from Marcos' Cabinet underscores the strained relations between their families in recent months, adding a political dimension to her declaration.
The Vice President's stance has drawn both criticism and support, with some defending her decision as a prudent measure in the interest of national security. As the controversy continues to unfold, Duterte remains steadfast in her commitment to her role and responsibilities amid the evolving political landscape.