President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his speech at the Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City on April 9, 2018 before going to China to attend Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2018. (Cerilo Ebrano / Photoville International)
MANILA, Philippines — Administration ally Boy Saycon has recently accused the Catholic Church of being behind the alleged destabilization plot against President Rodrigo Duterte — but Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque believes otherwise.
Roque noted that he needs to brief Saycon on the standard operating procedures (SOP) of Malacañang in providing statements to the public.
“The president is confident in his faith. The Church is confident in its mission to the country. What we just want is for the two institutions to both properly serve the society,” said Roque.
Saycon is one of the members of the committee created by the president to talk to the Catholic Church and other religious denominations.
The move aims to resolve the tension between the two sides particularly the president’s criticism of the church for two years now.
Aside from this, the dialogue might also tackle the abuse of some Catholic priests of minors, in which the president himself claims to have been a victim as well.
Meanwhile, Roque explained that Duterte might not be able to attend the short notice invitation of the papal nuncio tomorrow. Instead, he will be represented by a four-man panel.
The president also appointed Cabinet Secretary Jun Evasco as a member of the team .
“I suppose his contribution is because he is an ex-priest himself and he is familiar with the dogma of the Catholic Church,” said the presidential spokesperson.
But Senator Antonio Trillanes IV believes the Palace is just diverting the issue away from the fact the president disrespected Filipino Christians.
He insists that the President’s freedom of expression is not the issue.
He also thinks the dialogue of Malacañang with religious leaders will not appease offended Filipinos.
“It will not address the real issue. This dialogue is just a gimmick of Malacañang propagandists to appease the public’s anger,” said Trillanes.
Roque on the other hand said, “He has nothing good to say about the president. I think the feeling is mutual, so no love is lost there.” — Rosalie Coz | UNTV News & Rescue
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