Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has decided to cancel his planned trip to the United States to address pressing domestic issues rather than due to any threats to his life, as clarified by Malaca±ang on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro cited information from the National Security Council, confirming that there are no direct threats to Marcos’ life, aside from a previous threat from Vice President Sara Duterte. “There is no direct threat to the President’s life, but they will not be complacent in ensuring and providing security for the President,” Castro stated during a Palace press briefing.
Marcos was initially scheduled to visit the US to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, which runs from September 22 to 30. However, Castro explained that Marcos opted to stay in the country to focus on local issues, such as the controversies surrounding flood control projects and the prices of basic commodities.
“Particularly as the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is still in the process of being established, it is imperative that the President closely monitor it to ensure prompt action on the reported anomalous flood control projects,” Castro noted. She further emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of the people, including efforts to lower the prices of goods.
Additionally, Castro dismissed claims that Marcos withdrew from the UNGA participation due to planned anti-corruption rallies on September 21. She described such protests as “natural” and “normal,” even welcomed by Marcos as part of the fight against corruption.
“The President is not worried because he knows that the people’s protests are about fighting corruption. He also mentioned yesterday that he himself initiated the investigation into these anomalous flood control projects,” Castro said. She added that those protesting are considered allies in the President’s cause against corruption, reiterating his commitment to transparency and accountability.