Malacañang pushes back against Vice President Sara Duterte’s criticism of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., particularly on claims of shortcomings in addressing the needs of Filipinos. Undersecretary Claire Castro, speaking during a press briefing on March 17, 2026, at the Bagong Pilipinas Studios in Mandaue City, Cebu, said the administration has outlined its programs and responses, including measures for Filipinos affected by the Middle East conflict.