Two senators expressed their support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s decision to remove Vice President Sara Duterte and former President Rodrigo Duterte from the National Security Council (NSC).
On January 3, 2025, Marcos Jr. approved the reorganization of the NSC, removing the Vice President and former presidents from the members of the council.
Senators Francis Tolentino and Win Gatchalian both agreed with the decision.
“It’s the prerogative of the President, it’s the discretion of the President because national security definition is not just national security as everybody knows,” said Tolentino.
“It covers foreign relations. It also covers economic, social, security, etc. So he chooses whoever he thinks can give him advice regarding things that require advice, like on foreign policy, legislation, domestic and internal security policy. It’s up to him.” he added.
Meanwhile, Gatchalian said that Marcos’ decision was based on the current situation of the country.
“We know the real situation. What’s important is that current members would be able to give him good advice, and for him to make the right decision for the country. It’s the President’s prerogative after all to choose who he thinks can give him proper advice,” Gatchalian stated.
Malacanang said that they found VP Duterte not relevant to the NSC.