By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – Malacañang on Tuesday criticized Vice President Sara Duterte for allegedly belittling the capabilities of Filipinos after comparing the Philippines’ military strength with that of China, saying government leaders should instead promote national unity and confidence.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the statement after Duterte reportedly likened the Philippines’ military force to a pinky finger or “hinliliit” compared with China’s fist.
“Ni-humiliate ng Bise Presidente, minaliit ng Bise Presidente Sara Duterte ang kakayahan ng mga Pilipino (Vice President Sara Duterte humiliated and belittled the capabilities of Filipinos),” Castro said during a Palace briefing.
She said that while the Philippines may be small compared with other nations, the courage and bravery of Filipinos should not be underestimated when they stand together.
“Maliit mang bansa tayo kung magkakaisa-isa ang bawat Pilipino, walang makakatalo sa katapangan, kagitingan ng isang tunay na Pilipino (Even though we are a small nation, if every Filipino stands united, no one can overcome the courage and valor of a true Filipino),” she said.
Castro stressed that the country’s leaders should not give up on defending the Philippines, citing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for unity in protecting the nation.
“Ang isang liderato, hindi dapat sumusuko. Ang sabi ng Pangulo, iisa lang ang bansa natin, iisang bansa ang dapat natin pinoprotektahan (A leadership must not give up. The President stated that we have only one nation, a single nation that we must protect),” she said.
She added that while Filipinos may have differing opinions on various issues, their love for the country should remain undivided.
“Magkakaiba man ang opinion sa ibang bagay pero ang pagmamahal sa bansa ay hindi dapat nahahati-hati (Even if opinions may differ on other matters, love for the country should not be divided),” Castro said.
She ended her response with a warning against what she described as “Manchurian candidates” who may be operating around the country.
“Kaya tandaan natin, baka marami nang Manchurian candidates ang nakapaligid sa ating bansa, mag-ingat po tayo (So let us keep in mind that there may already be many Manchurian candidates surrounding our country; let us be careful),” she said, without identifying anyone.
“Manchurian candidate” refers to a political figure who appears to be independent or acting in their own country’s interest, but is actually secretly controlled, brainwashed, or manipulated by an enemy power, rival party, or external agenda. (PNA)
