Gov’t detractors told to drop politics this Holy Week

By Darryl John Esguerra, Philippine News Agency

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (Bongbong Marcos/facebook)

MANILA – Malacañang on Tuesday called for unity and restraint, urging critics to refrain from political attacks during the Holy Week observance.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the appeal when asked about criticisms directed at President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the administration.

“Sa ngayon, sa panahon ngayon, ay iwasan po natin sana ang pamumulitika (At this time, we hope people will refrain from politicking),” Castro said in a Palace briefing.

“Kung wala po silang masasabing maganda at kung hindi paninira lamang, tumigil muna sila at makipagtulungan na lamang po sa administrasyon para ikaaangat ng ating bansa (If they have nothing constructive to say and are only engaging in criticism, they should stop for now and instead cooperate with the administration for the country’s progress).”

She said criticisms driven by personal interest are not appropriate amid current national challenges.

“Ang basher po ngayon, pansariling interes para masira ang gobyerno. Hindi po iyan napapanahon (Bashers are driven by personal interests to damage the government. It is not appropriate at this time),” she added.

Asked if she would pray for critics, Castro said “lahat po, dapat ipagdasal (Everyone should be prayed for).”

Castro also responded to remarks made by Senator Imee Marcos regarding the President.

The senator earlier said she is seeking forgiveness from her father, the late president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., for not being able to watch over her younger brother, whom she has had a falling-out with over issues in politics.

Castro defended the Chief Executive, saying his conduct in public office and personal life reflects discipline and responsibility.

“Ang Pangulo po ay hindi nagmumura, hindi nagmi-meltdown sa publiko at hindi nagbabanta sa buhay ninuman. May pamilya at faithful sa asawa (The President does not curse, does not have public outbursts, and does not threaten anyone’s life. He has a family and remains faithful to his spouse),” she said.

Castro added that the President is aware but has chosen not to engage with his sister.