Vice President Sara Duterte said that she’s only getting started with strengthening the Office of the Vice President (OVP), expanding its mandate, and ensuring that no one gets left behind.
The Vice President made several “historic firsts” in the 100 days since she assumed office on June 30.
These firsts, she said, “would not only significantly change the way Filipinos look at the Office of the Vice President — but most importantly — would strengthen its mandate and enable the office to serve more and more Filipinos across the country.”
In a 14-minute video report released in time for her first 100 days in office, Duterte noted that this is the first time in the history of the OVP that satellite offices were established in key areas across the country.
The establishment of the Disaster Operations Center and the planned permanent residence for future vice presidents of the Philippines are also a first for the OVP.
These would strengthen the mandate of the OVP and ensure that it “will never leave any sector behind.”
READ: OVP opens 7th satellite office in Bacolod City
“The watershed decisions that we have initiated, the reforms on the pipeline, the expansion of the existing social services programs, the implementation of programs aimed at addressing lack of livelihood and recovery from disasters and armed conflicts — these all bring us to an Office of the Vice President that will never leave any sector behind,” Duterte said.
As the secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) in a concurrent capacity, the country’s second highest official has been confronted by challenges upon assuming her post.
She did not provide specific details, but stressed how her job tests one’s resolve, determination, and dedication to public service.
Duterte said she came prepared to handle these challenges.
READ: First 100 Days: VP Duterte cites return of in-person classes as her biggest achievement
“My first 100 days as Vice President had been marked by many challenges I had prepared myself for, given my long experience in government service and politics,” she furthered.
“They test your anchor and may even push you off track. You may sometimes lose sight of everything you intend to do because of these challenges.”
But instead of getting surprised by these challenges, Duterte stated that she sees these as opportunities because “they open windows for us to — with a great sense of urgency — study, assess, and address conditions that we need to overcome to move along.”
Since she assumed office, Duterte has been to 20 cities and municipalities across the country and went to the islands of Limasawa in Southern Leyte, Siquijor, and Guimaras to bring the services of the OVP.
READ: First 100 Days: Duterte visits 16 provinces, 20 cities and municipalities
“And in the coming days, there will be more challenges ahead — challenges that we hope to turn into opportunities to be able to serve you and the country better,” she said.
“We are just starting,” she added.