VP Sara Duterte expresses readiness to partner with IBP-Misamis Oriental

Vice President Sara Duterte reaffirmed her office’s readiness to collaborate with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Misamis Oriental Chapter to extend legal and social assistance to marginalized Filipinos.

Duterte shared details of the engagement in a Facebook post on Thursday, highlighting a courtesy call she made to the chapter’s office in Cagayan de Oro City last month.

During the visit, the Vice President met with local bar members to discuss potential joint initiatives between the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the legal association aimed at aiding local communities.

Speaking to her fellow lawyers, Duterte emphasized the legal profession's duty to safeguard civil liberties and maintain public trust.

“Tandaan natin palagi, bilang mga abogado, kaakibat ng ating tungkulin ang pagsulong at pagprotekta sa karapatang pantao ng lahat. Patuloy tayong manindigan sa tama at magserbisyo para sa mga Pilipino,” Duterte said.

(“Let us always remember that as lawyers, it is our duty to promote and protect the human rights of all. Let us continue to stand for what is right and serve the Filipino people.”)

She urged the legal community to remain steadfast in public service and uphold the rule of law.

The engagement comes as Duterte navigates an ongoing impeachment trial in the Senate, following the House of Representatives' adoption of articles of impeachment against her.

Concluding her post, Duterte renewed her call for solidarity and patriotism: “Mahalin natin ang Pilipinas—para sa Diyos, sa Bayan, at sa bawat Pamilyang Pilipino.” (“Let us love the Philippines—for God, for the Nation, and for every Filipino Family.”)