Attacks Against VP Sara Duterte Only Make Her Stronger

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has repeatedly pushed back against political attacks and legal challenges, saying that criticism and opposition have only strengthened her resolve and public profile as she continues her role in national politics.

Over the past year, Duterte has faced a range of criticisms and controversies, including impeachment complaints filed in the House of Representatives and revived plunder and graft charges linked to the alleged misuse of confidential funds from both the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education. Duterte has dismissed many of these accusations as politically motivated attacks aimed at undermining her credibility.

In December 2025, Duterte labeled the revived complaints as a “fishing expedition,” urging the public not to be easily swayed by what she describes as slander and baseless allegations, and framing her critics’ efforts as a distraction from deeper issues of corruption that remain unresolved.

Earlier this year, Duterte also went through what she described as a “professional crisis” during her time serving concurrently in the Marcos administration, saying she was unfairly attacked despite focusing on her duties. She said that these struggles ultimately helped her better understand her role and strengthened her commitment to public service.

Political tensions with the current administration have also contributed to the scrutiny she faces. Palace officials accused Duterte of making “self-serving lies” and pursuing personal political ambitions, framing her actions as attempts at political destabilization rather than honest public service.

Despite these challenges, Duterte has maintained that the various attacks have not weakened her resolve. Supporters argue that the legal and political pressures have increased her visibility and helped galvanize her base, with many seeing her as a figure who keeps pushing forward regardless of opposition.

Analysts say that how Duterte navigates these controversies could influence her future political trajectory, especially with speculation about her positioning ahead of the 2028 presidential race.

However, her repeated framing of attacks as politically motivated and her assertions of resilience suggest that she is determined to use criticism as fuel for her political ambitions rather than letting it diminish her standing.