TACLOBAN CITY — Mayor Alfred Romualdez praised President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his cousin, for remaining focused on his duties despite ongoing political tensions.
Romualdez expressed his admiration during an interview on Friday (Dec.6) night while leading the lighting ceremony of a 40-foot Christmas tree at the City Hall grounds.
“I commend the President for not being affected by the political situation. He remains focused on his work, which is important as the country faces numerous challenges. That’s why I salute him,” the mayor said.
He also downplayed the reported tensions involving the President, House Speaker Martin Romualdez—another cousin—and Vice President Sara Duterte, describing such conflicts as typical challenges faced by leaders.
“As a chief executive, I know there are always challenges and disruptions. The key is to stay focused on your responsibilities,” he remarked.
Reports have pointed to a feud between President Marcos and Speaker Romualdez on one side and Vice President Duterte on the other.
The conflict has reportedly escalated following Duterte’s alleged public threat to harm the President, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Romualdez.
When asked about supporting Duterte’s impeachment, Mayor Romualdez deferred to Congress, saying, “Let our legislators do their job.”
Vice President Duterte currently faces impeachment complaints, with the alleged threats cited as one of the grounds for her potential removal. Duterte ran alongside Marcos as part of the Unity Team during the 2022 elections.
Despite the controversy, Mayor Romualdez believes the Unity Team remains intact, emphasizing that many individuals not originally part of the group have since joined its ranks.
“We cannot label the Unity Team as dissolved because many who were not initially part of it are now with the group,” he explained.
“But I can say that the President is sincere in his efforts to unite as many people as he can,” Romualdez added.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
