Miguel attempted to justify his stance, stating, “Don’t judge the book by its cover, lalo na kung hindi kita judge.” However, instead of quelling the controversy, his remarks have only intensified public outrage, with many criticizing his explanation as confusing, insincere, and out of touch.
Miguel, who had previously been known as a Duterte supporter, insists that his decision was made in the interest of due process and as part of his legislative duty.
“Bakit ako nag-perma? Kasi responsibilidad namin na kumilos ukol sa mga reklamo,” he explained. “Nag-perma ako kasi pinagtatanggol ko si Bise Presidente Sara Duterte.”
Despite his clarification, many South Cotabateños remain unconvinced, with social media flooded with mockery and criticism. Among the reactions from frustrated voters:
Ito ang pinaka hindi ko maintindihan na paliwanag, tumawa na lang tayo. Hahahaha. Please lang, bumoto tayo nang maayos.
So dapat magpasalamat pa pala sayo si VP Duterte dahil ikaw ang tagapagtanggol niya? Hero ka, Cong?
Mas mabuti pa kung tumahimik ka na lang sana. Lumalala pa… disappointing.
Adding to the backlash, Miguel’s move is seen as a major political gamble in South Cotabato’s 2nd District, where Vice President Duterte won by a landslide in the 2022 elections with 129,404 votes. Many voters now view his support for the impeachment as a betrayal that could severely impact his reelection bid in 2025.
In contrast, 1st District Representative Ed Lumayag, who also signed the impeachment complaint, has faced less public backlash, primarily because his reelection opponents are not widely known or politically influential.
As the impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte continues to stir national debate, Miguel’s decision remains a hot-button issue in South Cotabato. Many Duterte supporters have vowed to hold him accountable at the polls, potentially making his reelection bid one of the most challenging of his political career.
Post a Comment
Comments Here