Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte has reiterated her commitment to work with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as she thanked him for his continued trust and confidence.

The Vice President even thanked President Marcos in her statement on Wednesday for his continued trust and confidence as Education Secretary.

“Mahalaga ang kanyang pagkilala sa papel ng lahat ng bumubuo ng Department of Education sa pagsulong ng 8-point Socioeconomic Agenda ng Marcos administration para sa isang ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ (New Philippines) (His recognition to the role of the Department of Education in pursuing the 8-point Socioeconomic Agenda is important for a Bagong Pilipinas),” Duterte said in her statement on Wednesday evening.

Duterte also lauded President Marcos for respecting her views, especially on people’s initiative.

Likewise, Duterte said she respects the views of his father and siblings but does not necessarily agree with them.

“Ang paggalang ay isang natatanging asal na ipinakita ng Pangulo sa ating lahat, kung kaya’t galangin din sana natin ang opinyon at paniniwala ng ibang tao, kasama na ang ating mga kamag-anak (Respect is one of the traits that our President has been showing us, that’s why we should also respect the opinions and beliefs of other people, including my family),” Duterte said.

“Pinalaki ako ng aking mga magulang na may pagpapahalaga sa malayang pag-iisip at pagpapasya (I was raised by my parents with appreciation on freedom to think and decide),” she added.

Sincerity to serve the country, Duterte said, is her priority, especially in education and ensuring peace.

The statement came amid criticisms and accusations recently hurled by her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, and her brother Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte against the President.

President Marcos had clarified earlier that there is no rift between him and his Vice President. (PNA)