16/03/2025
REPOST;
The following are the issues raised against President Bongbong Marcos (BBM) by trolls, along with the facts that counter them:
1. "He is an ingrate to the Dutertes."
– BBM does not owe the Dutertes any political debt. Even before he became president, former President Rodrigo Duterte (PRRD) had already been criticizing him. The burial of his father, Ferdinand Marcos Sr., at the Libingan ng mga Bayani was not a favor to BBM but a campaign promise PRRD made to the Ilocanos in exchange for their support in the 2016 elections. Political alliances are temporary, but leadership decisions should always prioritize the country over personal ties.
2. "He is an addict."
– This is a baseless accusation. During the 2022 election campaign, BBM voluntarily underwent drug testing, and the results showed he was clear of any substance abuse. On the other hand, PRRD himself publicly admitted to using fentanyl, a highly addictive opioid. The double standard in these accusations exposes the bad faith behind them.
3. "He is not managing the country or the economy well."
– The actual figures show otherwise. Economic indicators reflect that the country is on the right track, with stable growth, increasing investments, and improved international confidence. While economic challenges persist globally, BBM's administration has implemented strategic measures to ensure sustainable development and recovery.
4. "Crime rate is higher now compared to the time of Duterte."
– Crime statistics should be examined objectively, not through political narratives. BBM’s leadership demonstrates a no-nonsense approach to eradicating illegal activities, such as his crackdown on POGOs. Moreover, his administration has apprehended more drug dealers without resorting to extrajudicial killings, proving that effective law enforcement does not require human rights violations.
5. "He betrayed the country by surrendering Duterte to the ICC."
– The cases filed against Duterte in the ICC were initiated in 2017 by the Magdalo group and the families of victims—long before BBM assumed office. Duterte's decision in 2019 to withdraw the Philippines from the ICC ultimately backfired, as the Rome Statute's provisions regarding arrest and surrender could no longer be applied. Instead, under BBM’s administration, Philippine laws were used to facilitate cooperation with Interpol regarding the case. The principle of accountability should not be mistaken for betrayal.
6. "He is vengeful against the Dutertes."
– On the contrary, it is the Dutertes who have shown vindictiveness toward BBM for not being obedient to their whims and caprices. Instead of acting as statesmen, they continuously blame BBM, his wife, and Congress for all their political woes. Furthermore, an ongoing investigation into the disallowances on how Vice President Sara Duterte spent her confidential funds in a highly suspicious manner further exposes their attempts to evade accountability. BBM's leadership is focused on governance, not political grudges.
