House Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V of La Union refuted former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s claim that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is becoming a dictator.
Ortega accused Duterte of being a “fake news factory,” alleging that the former president is spreading false information to discredit the Marcos administration.
He also criticized Duterte and his allies for allegedly continuing to disseminate misleading claims.
House Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur strongly denied Duterte’s accusations, stating that it is President Marcos himself who has been receiving threats and insults without retaliating.
Adiong emphasized that Marcos respects the separation of powers in government and does not interfere with the mandates of various agencies.
He compared Marcos’ administration to previous ones, highlighting that no justices have been removed or opposition senators jailed for political reasons under his leadership.
House Assistant Majority Leader Ernix Dionisio of Manila also dismissed the claims, asserting that Marcos is far from being a dictator and urging the public to be critical of such accusations.
Dionisio called on Filipinos to stop attacking each other for personal political gain.