Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro hit back at Vice President Sara Duterte, stating that the Philippines might cease to exist by 2028 if a Manchurian candidate—a puppet of another country—is elected. Castro suggested Duterte's warning of multiple crises could only materialize under such leadership. The exchange escalated with Castro labeling Duterte an 'emotional vulture'.
On February 13, 2026, in a media interview, Vice President Sara Duterte stated that the Philippines could be 'drowning' in multiple crises by 2028. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro responded during a briefing that this prediction would only hold if Filipinos elect a 'Manchurian candidate'—a puppet who would surrender the country's resources and rights to another nation. Castro referenced former President Rodrigo Duterte's 2018 joke suggesting China make the Philippines a province.
Castro described Duterte as an 'emotional vulture' feigning concern for the country while refusing to support President Marcos's projects. 'Drama, but no action,' she said. Castro defended the Commission on Elections against Duterte's doubts about the 2028 presidential polls, noting that as a lawyer, Duterte knows the law.
Regarding Duterte's Valentine's Day message hoping Castro and the President would end up together, Castro called it 'pure insult, pure insinuation, pure immorality.' She advised Duterte's communications team to teach her 'Comms 101' for some statesmanship. In response, Castro said: 'Spread love, not fake news, not immorality. Don’t be a Chucky.'—referring to the killer doll from the 1988 film 'Child’s Play'.
Duterte countered from Malacañang, saying Castro brings shame to the country as the President's spokesperson. She attributed her higher satisfaction rating in the Social Weather Stations survey from November 24-30, 2025—'moderate' +28 compared to Marcos's 'neutral' -5—to her accomplishments for the people. Duterte resigned as education secretary in June 2024 after her alliance with the Marcoses soured.
The sources do not suggest implications for their future relationship or broader politics.
