BRAVING heavy rain, supporters of Vice President Sara Duterte gathered at Gaston Park here on Sunday, December 1, to protest what they described as political harassment against the Vice President and to urge the government to address pressing national concerns.
The rally, organized by former columnist Ben Contreras and Tess Dael Padla, brought together participants from Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte, and Cagayan de Oro City.
From 3:40 pm to 5:00 pm, speakers criticized perceived government mismanagement and appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritize the welfare of Filipinos over political conflicts.
“We need the government to focus on real national issues instead of political infighting,” said Dorothy Balaba, a resident of Cagayan de Oro.
Balaba and other speakers raised several concerns, including:
⬣ Alleged misuse of public funds, such as PCSO lottery and PhilHealth money reportedly transferred to the national treasury.
⬣ Questions about the Maharlika Investment Fund and P500 billion allocated for aid.
⬣ Sale of public assets to oligarchs and the rising costs of living, including inflation and higher fees for government services.
⬣ Reports of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas selling 25 tonnes of gold reserves.
⬣ A P1.3 trillion budget for flood control projects.
⬣ Continued challenges with illegal drugs.
The group also opposed the construction of a proposed naval base within the Phividec Industrial Estate in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, citing concerns over the potential impact on local communities.
Despite the downpour, the rally underscored the supporters’ resolve to demand greater transparency and accountability from the administration.
Organizers said the turnout reflected strong public support for Duterte and a collective call for national unity centered on addressing critical issues.
