The Palace responded to Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent criticism of the Marcos administration’s foreign policy, tagging her as a pro-China figure.
During a rally in Australia, Duterte questioned the government’s decision to allow the entry of a foreign missile system into the Philippines. She did not name the country but pointed to the apparent favor shown to a foreign power.
The Vice President was referring to the Typhon missile system from the United States, which was deployed to the Philippines in early 2025. The system was used in the Philippine Army’s Salaknib exercise and the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Balikatan exercise.
At a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was not surprised by Duterte’s remarks. According to Castro, the Duterte family has long been known for their pro-China stance.
The issue highlights a growing split within the Philippine leadership regarding international alliances, particularly between the United States and China. Both Duterte and Marcos have previously shown contrasting foreign policy directions.
