Two more years remain before the country once again chooses new leadership, and as early as now, several names are already being floated as possible contenders for the nation’s highest post.

Among them is another Duterte — Vice President Sara Duterte. When asked about her political plans, she responded with uncertainty about the country’s future itself.

“Mayroon pa bang bayan, mayroon pa bang Pilipinas na pag-uusapan sa taong 2028,” she said, expressing doubt about what lies ahead.

She pointed to what she described as worsening national issues, saying the country is not only grappling with severe flooding but also corruption and other longstanding problems that she believes have not been adequately addressed.

The vice president also criticized Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro, saying her statements bring embarrassment to the country.

“Si Claire Castro nagdadala yan ng kahihiyan sa ating bayan. Kapag ganun yung nagsasalita, ganun yung sinasabi ng nagsasalita ay nagdadala siya ng kahihiyan sa bayan natin kaya dapat hindi na siya pinapakinggan at pinapansin,” she said.

Meanwhile, during a recent press briefing, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro responded to the vice president’s statements, characterizing them as political theatrics.

“Iyan ay galawang Duterte, showing the characteristics of an emotional vulture,” Castro said, in response to the remarks made by Sara Duterte the previous day.