Marcos designates self as official ‘BFF of Sara’

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday described himself as the “official BFF (best friend forever)” and “number-one fan” of Vice President Sara Duterte, following a series of surprising political developments, including her resignation from the dominant Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD).

During the launch of Pier 88 in Cebu, Duterte introduced Marcos, her 2022 elections running mate, as the guest of honor and speaker.

Marcos thanked the Vice President for her “kind” introduction, saying he felt as if he was back in the campaign period.

“Parang nabalik ako doon sa kampanya, nandoon kaming dalawa ni Inday Sara nagbubungisngisan ulit (I felt like I was back to the campaign period. Inday Sara and I were there laughing together again). And the reason I made her laugh is that I told her, dito sa mga gulong nangyayari (with all the mess that are happening), I have just officially designated myself as your self-appointed official BFF,” the President said, referring to a modern term for being long-term best friends.

“So kahit… Sorry na lang. Sa ayaw mo at sa gusto mo (Whether you like it or not), I’m still your number-one fan,” he added.

Duterte was seen smiling after Marcos delivered the impromptu remark.

Marcos’ statements came days after former president and incumbent Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was abruptly demoted from senior deputy speaker to deputy speaker.

Arroyo was replaced by Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr.  to “unburden” her “of the heavy load required from the position,” according to House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe.

There were rumors that Arroyo, who was described by Marcos as his “secret weapon” during his foreign trips, was demoted because she had sought to oust Speaker Martin Romualdez, the President’s cousin. Arroyo has denied this, saying she no longer wants to become speaker.

After Arroyo’s demotion, Duterte resigned from the dominant Lakas-CMD party.

In a recent statement, Duterte, the former chair of the party, said she is in her post because of the Filipinos’ trust to lead and serve them and the country, and “this cannot be poisoned by political toxicity or undermined by execrable political powerplay.”

There are speculations that Duterte’s resignation from Lakas-CMD, whose president is Romualdez, and Arroyo’s demotion are related.

Duterte and Romualdez were both present during the launch of Pier 88. Marcos was seen talking to them after the event.