MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has dismissed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s newly launched anti-corruption campaign as a “political zarzuela” and suggested it may have come “a little too late,” raising doubts about its sincerity and potential impact.
In a media engagement on September 1, Duterte expressed skepticism over the administration’s ability to deliver meaningful results after years of persistent corruption issues. She likened the initiative to a zarzuela — a theatrical performance — implying that it was more of a spectacle than substance.
Her remarks come as analysts continue to cite entrenched patronage networks and the padrino system as key barriers to genuine reform in government.
The Vice President’s criticism also adds to the widening rift between her and the Marcos administration, following early disputes over intelligence funds, policy differences, and a series of public exchanges that have underscored their political tensions.
