Manila:Malacañang has dismissed Vice President Sara Duterte's call for the Marcos administration to "start working and stop politicking" as both "funny" and "extremely ridiculous," asserting that the government remains focused on addressing the country's challenges.

According to Philippines News agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and his administration have consistently worked to improve the economy and the lives of Filipinos since taking office. Castro was responding to Duterte's accusations that the administration is shifting its narrative by framing issues involving alleged Chinese funding and a drug shipment intercepted in Laos as national security concerns to undermine the Vice President.

Castro emphasized that the administration is also tackling other challenges, such as the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, natural disasters, and the El Niño phenomenon. She reiterated that President Marcos is committed to enforcing the law and ensuring accountability for those involved in wrongdoing, including acts threatening national security.

Further, Castro questioned the Vice President's criticism of the administration's work ethic, pointing out Duterte's frequent overseas trips since 2025, which she labeled as personal travels. She noted that while Thailand had been mentioned as a destination, the Palace had not publicly acknowledged a planned trip by Duterte to Laos.

Castro also referenced the allegations against Duterte during the Senate impeachment proceedings, stating that these have yet to be disproven. She clarified, however, that the Palace would not interfere in the ongoing proceedings, acknowledging the substantial evidence presented so far.