MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Monday said that federalism is a matter that calls for “serious discussions” after Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary Margaux “Mocha” Uson and her co-star on an online show reaped criticism over a controversial video.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque believes that Uson, a former actress and dancer, had good intentions for posting the video. He said, however, that the attempt should be “commensurate with the importance of the constitution.”
“Siguro pag usaping federalism, dapat mas seryoso dahil ito po ay saligang batas—ang pinakamataas na batas sa ating bayan (I suppose the discussion on federalism should be done with more seriousness because it is the basic law—the highest law of the land) ,” he said.
Roque also noted that President Rodrigo Duterte has nothing to do with the video, which shows Uson’s co-host Drew Olivar, chanting “i-pepe” and “i-dede” while gesturing to his crotch and chest. He then yelled “i-pederalismo” at the end of the dance.
READ: Mocha, co-host reap criticism for 'federalism' video
The video that the presidential communications assistant secretary posted on her Facebook was met with criticism by lawmakers and federalism advocates.
Senate President Vicento Sotto III said that “theatrical technique” will not work to promote the proposed shift to a federal form of government.
Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III had harsh words for Uson, saying he was more disappointed that “the best and the brightest” appointees of the Duterte administration could only come up with “that kind of bullshit.”
Responding to the backlash, Uson said that the viral video was shot before the Consultative Committee talked to her about the federalism information drive.
She also said that she is not the ambassadress of federalism.
“I am only one of those who are helping on the campaign to promote federalism on social media,” Uson said.
READ: Mocha: I'm not the ambassadress of federalism