SOME locals in Cagayan de Oro City, who wanted to remain anonymous, strongly disagreed with former President Rodrigo Duterte’s bold claims about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. possibly moving toward dictatorship.
They even stated that it is unlikely Marcos Jr. would follow in his father’s footsteps.
“His father was ousted, so why would he do the same thing? I don’t think so,” one local leader said.
A student at one of the city's universities also claimed that he disagreed with the former president (Duterte)’s statement.
“Today, February 25, the Philippines marks the anniversary of the People Power (Revolt), a historic moment when citizens united to restore democracy,” the student said.
Some business sectors in the city also disagreed, stating that as the nation reflects on the power of the people today, many hope for a future where democracy thrives without fear of oppression.
This year, the celebration comes amid the issue after Duterte, speaking at a rally in Mandaue City, suggested that Marcos Jr. might not step down after his term ends in 2028 and could impose martial law, similar to his father's regime.
In response, earlier, Malacañang labeled Duterte’s comments a “hoax.” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin called the accusations “baseless” and suggested that Duterte is trying to gain a political advantage ahead of the mid-term elections.
Bersamin emphasized that the Marcos administration is committed to democracy and the rule of law, assuring the public that they would not revert to the oppressive tactics seen during Duterte’s presidency when many critics faced unjust treatment.
“This hoax is just another trick from him,” Bersamin said.
He urged Filipinos to recognize the difference between past violations of rights and the current government's commitment to uphold them.
