- Robredo announced resignation from Duterte cabinet effective Monday
- She cited difference in principles, thought she could work with the president
- She also touted gains of her office despite facing many obstacles
- VP claimed ‘last straw’ came in the form of text message telling her not to appear in Cabinet meetings anymore
MANILA, Philippines – Amid their differences, Vice President Leni Robredo announced her resignation from the Cabinet of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte effective on Monday (December 5, 2016).
In her resignation letter shared on her official accounts, Robredo said she initially thought she could work with the president despite their opposing views on national issues — hence her decision to accept the position of housing czar.
“I had hoped that this shared commitment to the poor and marginalized would transcend the differences between us. So, I took the job of Housing Secretary when it was offered to me,” she said.
The vice president then touted the gains the HUDCC made under her watch in just a few months despite the several hurdles which she cited.
“One, the budget for all key shelter agencies in 2017 has been slashed by more than P19 billion. Two, all our key shelter agency appointment recommendations have not been acted on. Three, the Executive Order designed to make HUDCC effective was not signed,” she said.
According to Robredo, the ‘final straw’ came when her office received a text message from Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr. which contained the president’s instruction through his aide Bong Go telling her “to desist from attending all Cabinet meetings starting this Monday, December 5.”
“This is the last straw, because it makes it impossible for me to perform my duties. Hence, I am tendering my resignation from the Cabinet on Monday, December 5, 2016. With this resignation, you can expect that I will continue to support the positive initiatives of this administration and oppose those that are inimical to the people’s interest,” she said.
“However, as your duly elected Vice President, I will not allow the Vice Presidency to be stolen. I will not allow the will of the people to be thwarted. I will continue to serve the Filipino family and fulfill their dream for a better life,” Robredo added.
