“Let’s all take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of Philippine politics, where the lines between drama, comedy, and tragedy blur so often”
Well, baroks, in the ever-entertaining circus that is Philippine politics, we have yet another episode that’s sure to leave you scratching your head and asking, “Is this real life?”
Enter Harry Roque, the former presidential spokesperson who apparently missed his true calling as a scriptwriter for soap operas.
In his latest plot twist, Roque has kindly suggested that Vice President Sara Duterte take over the presidency—just temporarily, mind you—because President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. might have a “chronic illness.”
Yes, you read that right. And no, this is not satire.
So, what’s got Harry so concerned?
According to him, there are these “persistent allegations” that Marcos Jr. is engaging in some extracurricular activities with illegal substances.
And since the World Health Organization classifies addiction as a chronic disease, Roque decided it’s time to bring in the understudy.
After all, nothing screams “patriotism” like suggesting your boss step aside because of rumors, right?
Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the sheer brilliance of Roque’s logic here.
This is the same Harry Roque who served as the mouthpiece for Rodrigo Duterte, the man whose administration made “war on drugs” synonymous with “death toll.”
And now Roque is suddenly the compassionate advocate for those struggling with addiction? How touching!
It’s like watching a villain in a telenovela suddenly decide that maybe they’ve been a little too mean. Cue the dramatic music!
But wait, there’s more!
Roque assures us that Sara Duterte, the very same Sara who, out of the kindness of her heart, “gifted” the presidency to Marcos Jr. in 2022, would never dream of usurping his position.
I mean, why would she? It’s not like she’s been gunning for the top spot since day one, right?
No, Sara is apparently the Mother Teresa of Philippine politics—if Mother Teresa happened to be the daughter of a former president who ruled with an iron fist and a penchant for extrajudicial activities.
And let’s not forget the historical examples Roque might be drawing from.
Remember when President Joseph Estrada was forced to step down after that little “second envelope” scandal? Oh, wait, no, he was ousted in disgrace.
Or how about when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared a state of emergency during the 2006 political crisis?
Because that turned out great and totally wasn’t a Constitutional crisis in the making.
Clearly, Roque has been brushing up on his history books—or maybe just the headlines.
But let’s get serious for a second.
Philippine law does actually have provisions for what happens if a president is incapacitated.
Article VII, Section 11 of the Constitution lays out a process that, believe it or not, doesn’t involve a former spokesperson making unverified health claims.
Maybe, just maybe, we could try following that process instead of playing political “Bulong-Pari” with the country’s leadership.
So, Harry, here’s a suggestion: Next time you’re in the mood to “respectfully suggest” something, how about suggesting that everyone take a deep breath, maybe have a cup of tea, and actually discuss things like adults?
You know, with facts, evidence, and maybe even a dash of decorum? Just a thought.
And while we’re on the subject of recommendations, here’s another one: Perhaps the next time you want to play political chess, try to avoid using the country as your game board.
It’s a little tacky, and, frankly, it’s giving the rest of the world a real show—and not in a good way.
Let’s all take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of Philippine politics, where the lines between drama, comedy, and tragedy blur so often that you’re never quite sure which one you’re watching.
And remember, when in doubt, just ask yourself: What would Harry Roque do?
Then do the exact opposite.
