Negros Occ Governor Urges Neutrality in Marcos-Duterte Feud

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – “Don’t take sides.”

This was the reminder of Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson to mayors and local officials regarding the ongoing verbal dispute between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte.

Lacson urged officials to focus on improving economic conditions in their communities instead of engaging in the feud.

“Taking sides will not do any good for the country,” Lacson said.

He noted that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has already stated that the law will address the situation.

Referring to Vice President Duterte’s language, Lacson said, “The way that VP Sara spoke is very typical of a Duterte. The PI word is very common. I think that’s how they are when they are emotional.”

However, Lacson pointed out that Duterte’s alleged threat addressed to three individuals is a serious matter.

“Definitely, the government will not just take this sitting down. They will investigate and find out who this individual is that VP Sara mentioned,” he said.

The governor stressed the importance of letting proper agencies handle the probe.

“Let’s not take the law into our own hands. Let the law proceed, and we just have to wait for what the DOJ finds out,” he added.

Lacson also warned that the conflict between high-ranking government officials could lead to political and economic instability if it continues to dominate public attention.

PFP Supports Marcos Amid Threats

Meanwhile, the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) in Negros Occidental expressed unwavering support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. following alleged threats against him, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

PFP provincial chairman Anton Occeño, a party-mate of the President, posted a statement on his Facebook page, emphasizing the importance of leadership and unity.

“This critical juncture calls for the President’s leadership to safeguard the democratic values and security of our country,” Occeño said.

He added, “We stand firm with the President as he confronts these threats and continues to uphold the rule of law. It is crucial that, as a nation, we remain united in support of the government’s efforts to combat any form of violence that undermines the stability of our nation.”

PFP Negros Occidental also condemned any actions aimed at disrupting peace and order.

CIDG on Grave Threats

PNP CIDG chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III stated that grave threats against any person are punishable under the Revised Penal Code.

“But if it involves the President, it is an altogether different ball game, and another law comes in,” Torre said.