Photo credit: Sara Duterte

Vice President Sara Duterte recently found herself in the hot seat after leaving the country just as Super Typhoon Carina bore down on the Philippines.

The timing couldn't have been worse, and naturally, it raised a few eyebrows. However, the Office of the Vice President (OVP) quickly issued a statement to clarify the situation.

According to the OVP, the Vice President is currently on a personal trip overseas with her family. This trip had all the necessary approvals in place, including a travel authority from the Office of the President, dated July 9, 2024. The OVP emphasized the importance of respecting the privacy of the Vice President's family during this time.

While the timing of the trip was indeed unfortunate, the OVP reassured the public that their Disaster Operations Center, a brainchild of VP Duterte herself, remains fully operational.

This center is always on standby, ready to assist families affected by calamities like Typhoon Carina.

Criticism over the Vice President's departure is understandable, especially given the severe weather conditions. However, the OVP’s swift response aims to reassure the public that the necessary support systems are in place and functioning, even in her absence.