VICE President Sara Duterte expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for helping mend her relationship with her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte (FPRRD).
“This is ironic, but I have to thank Bongbong Marcos because there was forgiveness between me and FPRRD for all that has happened in our lives,” she said in a live interview on April 1, 2025.
Sara shared that she and her father have rekindled their bond as father and daughter. She said that when visiting FPRRD, she speaks to him only in that capacity, as legal matters are handled strictly by his lawyers.
She also reflected on how these visits have become the longest conversations she has ever had with her father, given that he was always busy with work while she was growing up.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Sara considers it a blessing to talk to him daily. However, she noted that if FPRRD were to return to Davao City as mayor, he would likely be occupied once again.
“Nabigyan kami ng time na makapag-usap as father-daughter, sad lang kay it has to happen inside the detention center but yes, thank you sa kanya (We were given time to talk as father and daughter. It’s just sad that it had to happen inside the detention center, but still, I’m grateful),” she said.
Despite challenges such as her impeachment and her father’s detention, Sara said she is happy to have a strong relationship with her sister, Veronica “Kitty” Duterte.
She also revealed that she is waiting to complete a document process in the Netherlands before returning to the Philippines.
Addressing concerns about her alliance with Marcos under UniTeam, Sara clarified that her father never blamed her for teaming up with the Marcoses. She explained that when she ran for vice president, FPRRD left the decision-making to her and never held anyone accountable for the situation.
Sara assured that her father is in good condition, and Kitty regularly visits him to share positive updates about their family. Kitty said Rodrigo is happy whenever they visit and takes comfort in the unity among the Duterte siblings and extended family.
She also shared that FPRRD was touched by the public’s support on his birthday.
“I told him of the support of the people of the world and in the Philippines,” Sara said.
Sara added that her brothers, Paolo “Pulong” Duterte and Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, will also visit their father, taking turns to ensure someone is always with him.
FPRRD was taken to The Hague, Netherlands, on March 11 over alleged crimes against humanity. His pre-trial hearing was held on March 14, 2025, and the International Criminal Court (ICC) has scheduled the confirmation of charges hearing for September 23, 2025. RGP
