Vice President Sara Duterte called on government officials to set aside politics and focus instead on improving peace, order, and development in communities across the country.

Speaking during the Araw ng Bigaan and 65th Patronal Fiesta in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, on July 8, Duterte said public officials should concentrate on addressing the needs of Filipinos who have long been waiting for better living conditions.

“Unang-una, ipinapaabot ko sa ating mga opisyal ng pamahalaan na itigil na muna natin ang pamumulitika (First of all, I call on our government officials to stop politicking),” Duterte said in an interview.

“Pananawagan nila ng transparency at accountability, pero ang totoong pakay nila ay ang kanilang sariling political interest (They demand transparency and accountability, yet their true aim is their own political interest),” she added.

Duterte also urged government leaders to give greater attention to ensuring order, peace, and development, particularly in communities that need jobs, livelihood opportunities, and public services.

“Pangalawa, sa ating mga opisyal pa rin ng pamahalaan na tutukan natin ang kaayusan, kapayapaan at kaunlaran ng ating bayan (Secondly, I urge our government officials to focus on order, peace, and progress for our nation),” Duterte said.

“Matagal nang naghihintay ang ating mga kababayan na mas maging maayos ang kanilang buhay (Our people have long been waiting for a better, more dignified life),” she added.

The Vice President said public officials should bring “kalinaw ug kalambuan,” a Cebuano phrase that means “kapayapaan at kaunlaran,” or “peace and development,” to the communities they serve.

During her visit, Duterte also reminded parents and other adults in communities about the importance of having stable jobs and businesses, saying livelihood opportunities can help promote peace and stability.

She likewise encouraged young people to remain disciplined and complete their education, describing them as the country’s future stewards.

Duterte is currently facing an impeachment trial before the Senate, which began on July 6.

The case involves allegations including the misuse of public funds, unexplained wealth, bribery and corruption, as well as alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and a former House speaker.

Duterte’s camp has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and maintained that the proceedings are politically motivated.

A conviction requires the vote of at least two-thirds of the 24-member Senate, or 16 senator-judges, and may result in her removal from office and disqualification from holding public office.