Group shows support for VP Sara

Local

RESIDENTS and motorists in Cebu expressed their support for Vice President Sara Duterte amid allegations of corruption and other controversies, including her reported rift with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.

On Sunday, December 8, Cebu-based Sara Duterte supporters and other allied groups held a caravan across Metro Cebu that culminated at Plaza Independencia in Cebu City.

Among the participating groups was the Independent Duterte Supporters Lapu-Lapu Chapter, which brought a delegation from Lapu-Lapu City to Cebu City.

Members carried green balloons and banners showing their backing for the vice president.

Raffy Rbags, a member of the Lapu-Lapu group, livestreamed the event on social media, declaring in his video, "Cebu is not sleeping and is showing support to the Vice President."

His livestream was later shared on the Cebu United Group United Facebook page.

In a separate livestream, Rbags said the event was just the beginning of a larger movement, saying "We are just starting."

During his stream, he also displayed a tarpaulin that read, "We love our country, but we hate the President."

Meanwhile, gubernatorial candidate and staunch Duterte supporter Pamela Baricuatro clarified that the event was organized independently of her group, Maisug.

However, she acknowledged their shared objective of supporting Duterte.

"We are united in our support for VP Inday. Our shared goal and dream for our country is to achieve good governance through transparency, accountability, peace, and security," she said in a text message to MyTV Cebu.

"Any assistance and support would be greatly appreciated," she sadded.

Duterte and Marcos initially ran under a "unity" tandem during the 2022 national elections, emphasizing cooperation and nation-building.

Their alliance gained overwhelming support, leading to their election as president and vice president.

However, the relationship reportedly soured in recent months due to policy differences and alleged disagreements over priorities within the administration.

As Duterte faces mounting controversies, including allegations of corruption, her camp has suggested that political maneuvering and strained ties with Marcos' allies could be contributing to her challenges. The fallout has sparked reactions nationwide, with loyal supporters rallying to her defense.(MyTVCebu)