Palace: Marcos’ Criticism of Duterte Administration Shows He’s Not a Weak Leader.
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FEBUARY 27,2025
The Palace responded Thursday to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent criticisms of the Duterte administration, emphasizing that his remarks reflect his commitment to strong leadership.
During campaign rallies, Marcos has made pointed comments about the previous administration, with the Palace defending him, stating that these criticisms demonstrate he is not a “weak leader.” Presidential Communications Officer Claire Castro explained that while the President often discusses his proposed programs and projects for the country’s progress, expressing his thoughts candidly is crucial in showing his resolve.

Castro further added, “Perhaps our President just needs to be transparent with his sentiments from time to time so people can see that he is not and will never be a weak leader.”
The comments come in the context of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s criticism of Marcos in 2021, where he called the then-presidential aspirant a “weak leader” and criticized him as a “spoiled child” and “only son” during a PDP-Laban rally in Calapan, Mindoro.
Marcos’ critics have often compared his leadership style to that of Duterte, but his responses suggest he’s ready to assert his leadership without hesitation.