On June 21, 2024, former House Speaker, and now Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon “Bebot” Alvarez, issued a statement of support to Vice President Sara Duterte as she resigned from being a Member of the Cabinet.

“I extend my full support and unwavering respect for VP Sara Duterte. She demonstrated extraordinary will and dedication as a Member of Cabinet of the administration despite unfortunate persistent orchestrated moves to discredit and delegitimize her from the very beginning of her term,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez highlighted VP Sara’s tenure, particularly as DepEd Secretary, as one marked with significant initiatives aimed at addressing long-standing challenges faced by the education sector.

“The Vice President started important initiatives to create lasting positive impact for our teachers and learners, and the whole basic education system. It is unfortunate that she will not be Secretary to see these initiatives through, but true to her brand of responsible leadership, she made it a point to provide a 30-day transition period to secure continuity of operations,” Alvarez remarked.

The veteran lawmaker pointed out that the resignation of VP Sara is an indication of her true strength of character – much like of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte – both of whom are beloved by the Filipino people.

“Surveys from reputable sources are clear. VP Sara received the most votes in the 2022 National Elections, even higher than President Marcos. And she is the most trusted government official among the cabinet. She continues to gain support of the people. And that’s probably why many politikos have issues against her – because she is a true servant of the people and a true leader of the nation’s interests. The Marcos cabinet lost a very capable public servant.” Alvarez stated.

Asked what her resignation means for the political landscape of the country, Alvarez explained:

“Well, actually for me it is a good thing. She now has more options insofar as how she can move in pursuit of serving the people, without the shackles imposed upon her by those who made it appear that they are willing to work with her but, at the same time, setting up traps along the way to make sure that she fails. Should she choose to decide, she can also be the representation of a genuine opposition that will serve as the check and balance against the shortcomings, and overextensions, of the Marcos administration.”

Clarified whether he would support the Vice President as the leader of the opposition, Alvarez had this to say:

“Of course. In a healthy democracy, opposition which provides an alternative point of view with how the country is being governed is a must. Whoever this person that represents the best interest of the people and the whole country, we will follow.”

Asked if he had any advice to VP Sara, Alvarez replied:

“I trust VP Sara’s decisions as she navigates the political field of Philippine politics.”