Duterte on Robredo as next president: She’s also good

MANILA, Philippines — From being incompetent, President Duterte now thinks Vice President Leni Robredo can be good enough to succeed him as president.

Duterte did not rule out the possibility of Robredo replacing him as president if he gets killed in a plane crash or die before finishing his term in 2022.

“If you are careless, maybe you want a new president. She’s also good. No problem about that,” the Chief Executive said, adding: “Every Filipino is always good.”

Duterte talked about the prospect of  getting killed when he narrated how bad weather and cloudy skies almost prevented him from getting to Bukidnon from Cagayan de Oro on Friday for the inauguration of Northern Mindanao Wellness and Rehabilitation Center in Barangay Casisang, Malaybalay.

During the event, Duterte delivered an extemporaneous speech rather than read from a two- to three-page speech printed in bold letters. “So, it means to say that I can finish this speech in about two and a half (minutes),” he said.

It was only last June when Duterte described Robredo as “incompetent,” adding she should kiss her ambition to succeed him as president goodbye.

“Kung siya mag-presidente? Look, I will not resign because it will make her president. My resignation is addressed to the people para makapili sila ng gusto nila,” Duterte told reporters in Clark, Pampanga.

Duterte made the comment as he talked about the possibility of electing a transition leader if a shift to federalism through Charter change will take place.

“Siya, I don’t think she can ever be ready to govern a country. Reason? Incompetence. She’s not capable of running a country like this, Philippines,” said Duterte of Robredo, a lawyer and former Camarines Sur representative. 

Robredo, designated leader of the opposition, was once part of the Duterte Cabinet, serving as housing czar. She, however, quit her post in December 2016 after she was told not to attend Cabinet meetings due to policy differences with the President.