Duterte warns of ‘threats to democracy,’ hits opposition crackdown

Metro Manila, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte warned of what she described as growing threats to democracy, accusing the government of using state institutions to silence critics and consolidate power.

“Ang mga natutunghayan natin ngayon ay dapat ikabahala ng bawat Pilipinong naniniwala sa demokrasya,” Duterte said in a video statement on Tuesday, June 2.

[Translation: What we are witnessing now should concern every Filipino who believes in democracy.]

The vice president said government resources and institutions are turning against political opponents instead of addressing pressing national issues.

“Nakikita natin kung paano ginagamit ang mga institusyon ng gobyerno at ang pera ng taumbayan laban sa anumang oposisyon,” she said.

[Translation: We see how government institutions and public funds are being used against any opposition.]

Duterte said democracy cannot function if dissent is treated as a threat.

“A democracy cannot survive when those in power see every critic as an enemy and every opposing voice as a threat,” she said.

She noted the need to protect the independence of institutions, including Congress.

“I have always believed that the independence of our institutions must be protected… free from threats, pressure, or any form of intimidation,” she said.

The vice president also criticized what she described as efforts to suppress dissent.

“Good governance does not require the elimination of opposition. Democracy works best when there is a healthy opposition that is free to question,” Duterte said.

She warned that the country is facing “disturbing realities,” including alleged diversion from key controversies, disregard for constitutional safeguards, and moves to expand political power.

Duterte said these developments reflect a government focused more on maintaining power than serving the public.

“These are the symptoms of a government that has become more preoccupied with protecting power than serving the people,” she said.

The vice president’s statement seemingly mirrors remarks of allies in the Senate.

Senate President Alan Cayetano said the institution is under attack and the cases faced by the majority members are linked to their bid to be independent. 

Malacanang said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. does not interfere in Senate affairs,