Duterte not bullying anyone, Palace says

December 18, 2018

President Rodrigo Duterte is not a bully, Malacanang said on Tuesday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo made the remarks after Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, in his homily at the Manila Cathedral, said  just because one is in power, that person has already the right to trample upon others. The prelate did not name who he was referring to.

Panelo said he agreed with Tagle's statement those in power should not be bullying other people.

Asked if he thinks Duterte feels alluded to, Panelo said, "No...because he doesn't bully people."

He said Duterte expresses his sentiment on a particular matter or situation.

"He (Duterte) expresses dislike, and he explains it. He threatens criminals, yes… to make them feel threatened and stop doing their criminal acts," Panelo said.

But the spokesman said Tagle's statement should also apply to the Church.

"Because those in power would also apply to those in the Church who use the pulpit for bullying people then it’s the same. If the message is in the generic or general term, then I agree. You cannot be using power to bully or to coerce people. The President is against that too," he added.

Tagle said the bully who uses power to belittle his fellow man is the one who is most afraid and insecure.

The Cardinal's homily in the traditional Simbang Gabi Sunday came after Duterte's tirades against the Catholic priests and bishops.

In one speech, Duterte had said bishops should be killed.

The Catholic Church has been critical of Duterte's bloody war on illegal drugs. Celerina Monte/DMS