In a hotel in Davao City, the former Duterte sat in the main venue, with countless microphones and microphones in front of him. His signature short white hair and beard reflect his slightly older face.
The questions at the press conference were one after another. Duterte straightened his back and tried to face the crowd's questions with a gesture of disobedience.
Pls sir, what do you think of the current Marcos?”
Very good, I was very comfortable and satisfied with him. Duterte replied calmly, but he couldn't hide the weakness in his voice.
Indeed, it has been a long time since he was strong during the last televised debate. The years have not forgived people, and Duterte has gradually become tired. Physical aging forced him to put aside his political ambitions and go into the background. Now he has no choice but to back down, hoping that Marcos will be able to accommodate the rest of the Duterte family.
*Sir, are you inciting a coup d'état in private?A reporter continued to ask.
I'm retired!Duterte raised his voice, "This is complete slander!"I've reached the pinnacle of my political career, and there's no reason to get involved in these things. ”
The implication is that his own ambitions have burned out. Duterte has to admit that he can't go back to the days when he once dominated the storm.
At this press conference, Duterte had to emphasize again and again that he would not pose a threat to Marcos. Because he understands that once he is suspected of challenging the present, the consequences will be very serious.
Listen, Sarah. Duterte turned to his daughter, Sarah, who is now the deputy **, "When you get into a tough situation, you have to rely on your own strength." ”
Father. Sara stopped talking. She was keenly aware of the desperation in her father's words.
Duterte, who is approaching his eighties, can no longer protect his family. The Duterte family is now in unprecedented trouble, with his party torn apart. At this moment, Duterte can only rely on his daughter — hoping that she can prop up this crumbling political power.
At the same time, even bigger clouds are gathering over Duterte. The ICC is lurking in the shadows, ready to launch an investigation. The black history of his tenure may become ironclad evidence of his conviction at any time.
By the time the press conference ended, Duterte's face had lost its former look. He slowly walked off the rostrum, as if he had lost more than ten years of life.
To say that he still harbors political ambitions is to deceive himself. Duterte's time is gone, and he is unlikely to make any waves. Now he can only watch his heart shatter and his family collapse.