DEPUTY Majority Leader and La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V strongly criticized the proposal for former President Rodrigo Duterte to run again in 2028, calling it a desperate and unconstitutional maneuver that insults the intelligence of the Filipino people.
“This is the most desperate plan I’ve seen. It shows they’ve run out of cards to play,” Ortega stated.
“Aminadong olats na ang kanilang manok at wala na talagang ibang baraha sa dami ng negatibong mga isyung kinakaharap nila. Buking na buking pang hindi sila pro-Pinoy. Pro-China sila,” Ortega lamented.
He emphasized that the 1987 Constitution prohibits a president from seeking re-election.
“Hindi siya puwedeng tumakbo ulit maliban na lang kung amyendahan ang Konstitusyon. This is clear in our laws,” Ortega explained.
Ortega also warned the public against being misled by such political maneuvers, saying it is a fine example of “pambubudol.”
“Pambubudol na naman ito at diversionary tactic. They are trying to distract us from the real issues. Ginagawang komedya at maiwan ang lahat,” he said.
The lawmaker expressed concern over the blatant misinformation of the Filipino people, making them think Duterte can still run as president in 2028.
“It’s evil to think that we can just fool the people with misinformation when our Constitution strictly prohibits the reelection of a president,” Ortega said.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and not be swayed by such tactics.
“We must be cautious and not allow ourselves to be deceived by these desperate moves,” Ortega added.
He also highlighted the importance of focusing on pressing national issues rather than political distractions.
“Marami tayong dapat pagtuunan ng pansin na mas mahalaga kaysa sa mga ganitong pakulo,” Ortega noted.
Ortega reminded the public of the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
“Our democracy is founded on laws that should not be bent for anyone’s personal gain,” he emphasized.
He urged Filipinos to be discerning and to prioritize the nation’s welfare over individual ambitions.
“Let us put the country’s interest above all and reject these desperate political moves,” Ortega said.
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