Former President Rodrigo Duterte has raised concerns over the suspension of Davao del Norte Gov. Edwin Jubahib. The Office of the President issued a 60-day preventive suspension for Jubahib following a complaint filed by Board Member Orly Amit for grave abuse of authority and oppression. Duterte criticized the suspension order, stating that it lacked due process.
“What is unbelievable to me is walang notice, wala lahat. Basta sinabi lang sa iyo umalis ka,” he said. Duterte expressed worry that the government may be leaning towards authoritarianism. He emphasized the importance of democracy and the boundaries of power, urging that removing an elected official without proper investigation is wrong.
Duterte advised Jubahib to seek relief from the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Davao del Norte first district Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez claimed that Jubahib’s suspension was connected to a prayer rally in Tagum City. Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo allegedly asked to call off the rally, but the governor did not comply. Duterte is expected to attend the rally, which Jubahib estimated would draw 100,000 attendees.
