Sara Duterte quits Philippine political party backing Marcos

Political rift could complicate president's legislative agenda

Philippine Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte speaks during an economic briefing following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s first State of the Nation address in Manila on July 26, 2022. © Reuters

CLIFF VENZON, Nikkei staff writer

May 19, 2023 13:14 JST

MANILA -- Citing "political toxicity," Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte on Friday announced her "irrevocable resignation" from a major party that backs President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

"I am here today because of the trust of the Filipino people in me to lead and serve them and the country, and this cannot be poisoned by political toxicity or undermined by execrable political powerplay," the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte said in a statement.