Leni to Rody: Take care, we need you

MANILA, Philippines - Amid supposed security threats against President Duterte and billions of pesos reportedly offered by drug lords for his head, Vice President Leni Robredo on Friday reminded the Chief Executive to take care of himself.

Robredo said Duterte informed her that a lot of people were alarmed over threats to his life during their phone conversation on Thursday when the President offered her a Cabinet post.

Duterte said the people have nothing to worry about since the Vice President is there to succeed him.

He said he was leaving his fate to God.

“Sabi ko, huwag naman Mr. President. Kailangan mag-iingat pa din kasi kailangan pa kayo ng bansa (I told him no, Mr. President. You have to take care of yourself because the country still needs you),” Robredo told reporters.

Robredo is first in the line of succession to the presidency. But she prefers that it remain that way until the end of her term in 2022.

Groups have raised concern over Duterte’s security after he waged war against drug traffickers and criminals.

In an interview with PTV-4, the President said he was not worried as Robredo will be there to take over and continue what he started.

“If God does not want me to die, I will not die. If God wants me out of the scene, I will be gone,” Duterte said.

“You have your Vice President…that is why we have a vice president. There is rule of succession,” he added.