VP Sara launches OVP pop-up exhibit, signs coffee table book in Davao City
By Ivy Tejano
VICE President Sara Z. Duterte and former President and Vice President now Pampanga second district Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo tour the EXTRA Ordinary: The Vice Presidents of the Philippines pop-up exhibit during the 90th anniversary of the Office of the Vice President of the Philippines at Abreeza Ayala Malls in Davao City on Saturday, March 14. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)
DAVAO CITY – Vice President Sara Z. Duterte urged young Filipinos to deepen their understanding of the country's history as she led the EXTRA+Ordinary: The Vice Presidents of the Philippines pop-up exhibit and First in Line: The Vice Presidents of the Philippines coffee table book signing here on Saturday, March 14.
The event at Abreeza Ayala Malls was part of the activities marking the 90th anniversary of the Office of the Vice President of the Philippines and coincided with the 89th founding anniversary of Davao City and the centennial year of service of the city government.
Duterte underscored the historical significance of the vice presidency, saying the position has frequently been viewed as merely a stepping stone to the presidency – a view that has long been incorrect – rather than a vital office with its own distinct mandate and responsibilities.
Former President and Vice President now Pampanga second district Rep. Gloria Arroyo attended the event.
Duterte acknowledged her as the only person who served as president and vice president.
"She is the only person in this room who has held both posts. She knows what this office demands before the country thinks to ask," Duterte said. "For her, succession was not hypothetical; the line was called, and she answered. Her presence today is not ceremonial – it is testimony."
The pop-up exhibit features the stories and contributions of 14 vice presidents, including the challenges they faced while serving the republic while Duterte's tenure is still ongoing. It is part of the nationwide effort to bring the traveling display to 90 locations across the Philippines.
OVP introduced the commemorative coffee table book which documents the lives and public service of the 14 individuals who have served as vice president. It includes historical accounts, photographs, and stories that illustrate the vice president's role.
Duterte encouraged the youth to go beyond textbooks and common narratives when studying Philippine history. She urged them to explore lesser-known accounts, consider overlooked stories, and better understand the difficult decisions made by past leaders.
"History is not just a collection of grand speeches. It is a series of difficult, often messy, human choices," the Vice President said as she also encouraged them to take an active role in preserving the nation's historical record and defending the country's dignity. "Let us protect the honor of our nation."
Arroyo acknowledged the gathering as a significant moment in the country's political landscape following Duterte's announcement to run for president in 2028, describing it as a vital part of democratic discourse that encourages public reflection and engagement.
She said that several vice presidents in Philippine history – Sergio Osmeña, Elpidio Quirino, Carlos P. Garcia, Diosdado Macapagal, Joseph Estrada, and herself –
eventually assumed the presidency, stepping in during pivotal moments that shaped the nation's leadership.
She cited ongoing constitutional processes in government, including impeachment proceedings and recalled that she also faced such processes multiple times during her political career. She said that she stands guided by the rule of law.
"Such a mechanism should neither be personal nor political theater," Arroyo said. "It is important that those in charge conduct the proceedings with sovereignty, fairness, and fidelity to the law, free from prejudice and mindful that institutions must endure longer than momentary passions."
Arroyo added that legislative leaders assured the people that impeachment hearings would be handled fairly, especially since the public is closely watching the proceedings in Congress. She urged lawmakers to approach debates with responsibility and fairness.
"I congratulate Vice President Sara Duterte and extend my best wishes as her important work – and the work of other vice presidents, including myself – continues in service of the nation through exhibits and the book," Arroyo said, as she highlighted the importance of platforms that encourage public discourse.