The quest for truth must not be suppressed, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stressed on Monday as he reminded government officials of their duty to protect the country and the Constitution.

President Marcos made the remarks following the tirades of Vice President Sara Duterte against him, First Lady Lisa Araneta-Marcos and Speaker Martin Romualdez.

“Ang katotohanan ay hindi dapat i-tokhang. Tapos na sana ang usapang ito kung tutuparin lamang ang sinumpaang panata na bilang lingkod-bayan ay magsabi ng totoo, at hindi hahadlangan,” the President said in referring to the infamous brand of the previous administration’s drug war.

“Kaya hindi tama ang pagpigil sa mga halal ng bayan sa paghahanap ng katotohanan. Hindi na sana hahantong sa ganitong drama kung sasagutin lamang ang mga lehitimong katanungan sa Senado at sa House of Representatives,” the President said in a video message.

He said the personalities involved must address the issue directly so the nation could arrive at the truth.

In the midst of the challenges the country is facing, President Marcos said he remains focused on governing. He also promised not to compromise the rule of law, which must be applied to everyone.

“Kaya hindi ko hahayaan magtagumpay ang hangarin ng iba na hatakin ang buong bansa sa burak ng pulitika,” the President said.

“Igalang natin ang proseso. Tuparin natin ang batas. Alalahanin natin ang mandato na pinagkatiwala sa atin ng milyong-milyon na Pilipino. Magtrabaho po tayo sa ikauunlad ng Republika ng Pilipinas at para matamo ang Bagong Pilipinas.” | PND