VP spox appointment questioned

The appointment of lawyer Ruth Castelo as Vice President Sara Duterte’s new spokesperson has drawn criticism from PDP-Laban spokesperson Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, who described the move as potentially detrimental given a looming impeachment trial against the Vice President.

In a statement, Topacio said that while he remains a supporter of Duterte, Castelo’s appointment “may not be the best… under the present circumstances,” citing Duterte’s own warning of a coming political “bloodbath.”

Topacio raised several concerns regarding Castelo’s professional track record. He cited a 2007 incident where she was “publicly scolded” by Sandiganbayan justices for appearing in court unprepared. He also accused Castelo of “forum shopping” in a legal case involving actress Claudine Barretto.

Furthermore, Topacio mentioned a Pasay court’s issuance of an injunction against the Department of Trade and Industry during Castelo’s tenure as undersecretary, which he linked to alleged preferential treatment of a local glass manufacturer.

Topacio also alluded to unspecified matters from Castelo’s personal life, claiming they could be exploited by Duterte’s political opponents.

“Some segments of her private life — which I cannot reveal for reasons of delicacy… may prove to be a liability in the future,” Topacio said.

Castelo’s past role as a lawyer for controversial gaming operator Atong Ang was also questioned by Topacio and while acknowledging it may not be illegal, he suggested “it may not play out well in terms of optics,” particularly now that she appears to be performing official duties as an employee of the Office of the Vice President.

“At the risk of sounding like an officious meddler… I respectfully but strongly urge her to reconsider,” Topacio said.