Sara Duterte says her purpose is more than becoming the next president

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Tuesday stressed that her purpose is not to become the next president of the country, but to spread her message on the “country’s problems and what needs to be done.”

Duterte made the pronouncement in a speech at the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry 52nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo, where she spoke about her current experiences as the vice president.

READ: Sara Duterte: I will never resign

In her speech, she began by noting the political pressure she had endured for the past years, noting how she remained “unbowed,” and refused to let it weaken her.

“To not stand all and unbowed is never an option for me,” said Duterte.

“After all, I have already learned what we do not want. I have learned and seen what we must change. And I have already started a resistance that our nation must ultimately win,” she remarked.

She then added that her purpose “has always been bigger than the position itself.”

“So, what is my purpose in all this political chaos? To set the bar high for empowerment,” said Duterte.

The vice president then outlined what she believed the country’s aspirations should be – a nation where leadership means service, integrity is not a weakness, and public office is a responsibility rather than a privilege.

She added the goal of making the country a place where every Filipino can live with dignity.

“And that is why the future of our country should never depend on whether one person becomes president,” said Duterte.

“It must depend on the people who know what they want for their country—and who refuse to settle for anything less,” she mentioned.

“And so, whether or not I become president, one thing is certain: The bar has been set high,” she added.

Duterte then shared what would help the country achieve its dreams: “Order. Integrity. Efficiency.”

According to her, the government must become competent and ensure that public services are efficient and reliable. 

She also said that, rather than aid, the government must focus on healthcare, education, infrastructure and social protection.

Among others, the vice president also expressed her belief in “genuine accountability,” and that it must be applied to all, and “not merely to select sham cases for political spectacle and personal gain.”

“My brothers and sisters, this is my purpose for the nation,” said Duterte.

“It is simply to convey this message: What the problem is, what our dream is, and what needs to be done,” she concluded.

Duterte’s speech came even as she herself continues to face several charges both before criminal courts and the Office of the Ombudsman—three counts of grave threats, and plunder, graft and malversation.

She is also the subject of an ongoing impeachment trial where she is being tried for allegations of misusing confidential funds, unexplained wealth, and grave threats. /apl