LEAVING LAKAS VP Sara resigns from Lakas-CMD Party

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte has resigned as a member of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) effective on Friday, May 19, 2023.

Vice President Duterte’s resignation came two days after former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was replaced as Senior Deputy House Speaker.

“This is to announce my irrevocable resignation as a Lakas-CMD member effective today. I am grateful to all the party members for the support that also once demonstrated that unity is possible to advance our shared dreams for our fellow Filipinos and our beloved country,” the vice president said in a statement.

Duterte, who served as chairperson of Lakas-CMD, did not give details about her leaving the political party that was associated with the former President.

The move to replace former president and now Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Macapagal-Arroyo as a senior deputy speaker was reported to be “a prerogative of the House of Representatives.”

On Wednesday, the House approved a move to replace Arroyo as senior deputy speaker, switching roles with former deputy speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr.

This means Arroyo will still be a deputy speaker, but Gonzales