Senator Risa Hontiveros recently shared her thoughts on Vice President Sara Duterte’s new children’s book, “Isang Kaibigan,” during a Senate budget hearing. The book, which features Duterte’s life and accomplishments, has become a point of discussion between the two public figures, particularly in light of the ongoing debates over the budget allocation for the Office of the Vice President.
A video shared by journalist Mav Gonzales on X (formerly Twitter) showed Hontiveros skimming through the book, which prominently features VP Sara Duterte. The first page of the book includes a photo of Duterte in an emerald green evening gown, accompanied by a brief introduction that reads, “KILALANIN SI INDAY SARA DUTERTE. Si Inday Sara ang ika-labilimang Pangalawang Pangulo ng Pilipinas. Siya rin ay naging Alkalde ng Lungsod ng Davao at Kalihim ng Kagawaran ng Edukasyon. Siya ay isang tunay na kaibigan.”
As Hontiveros reached the end of the book, she commented on its visual appeal, noting that the illustrations were particularly vibrant. “Colorful yung illustrations,” the senator remarked, acknowledging the book’s artistic elements.
However, the interaction between Hontiveros and Duterte regarding the book did not stop at mere pleasantries. The book became a contentious topic during a heated exchange between the two during the Senate budget hearing. The senator questioned the necessity and timing of the book’s release, particularly given the current economic challenges faced by the country. She expressed concerns that the book, while visually appealing, may serve more as a promotional tool for the Vice President rather than a meaningful educational resource for children.
The debate over “Isang Kaibigan” highlights the broader tensions between the two political figures, who have often found themselves on opposite sides of key issues. While Hontiveros acknowledged the effort put into the book’s production, her remarks underscored a deeper concern about the use of government resources for projects that may be seen as self-serving.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros received a copy of VP Sara Duterte’s book “Isang Kaibigan” after the former flagged the proposed 10-million peso budget for the book’s distribution to children.
— Mav Gonzales (@mavgonzales) August 21, 2024
After skimming the book, Hontiveros said “colorful yung illustrations.” @gmanews pic.twitter.com/inrHsrKrWW
VP Sara Duterte, who has previously defended her book as a means to inspire and educate the youth, responded to Hontiveros’s comments by reiterating the importance of showcasing positive role models to children. The exchange between the two continues to draw attention, reflecting the ongoing political dynamics in the Philippines.
In the first place is she a writer? Secondly, let us check how much is the price per book. Do we need to spend ten million for the book? And at the back part is her picture in a green gown. Is there a need for her picture to be there? At this time wnen election is just around the corner, delicadesa must be adhered to. And that is a government fund!
Alangan naman kung tungkol kay Hontiveros ang isusulat Jan, malamang Kay VP.
My suggestion on the issue on “kaibigan book project,” is this;
LET VP SARAH INCLUDE SENATOR RIZA HONTEVEROS AS MODEL IN THE BOOK. BAKA MATANGAL. PUEDE BA? PARA SA
Leave that book to VP Sara Duterte. Senator Riza Honteviros. I suggests to please concentrate on making useful and beneficial laws like the Legalization of Divorce .
Ok Lng na magpublish ng book pero sa sarili nyang expenses..hwag nyang isali sa budget ng bansa..magbigay sya ng complimentary copies sa mga public schools..bibilhin nman yan kung may sense at kapu2lutan ng aral..
Bakit maging promotional tool, hindi naman bomoboto ang mga bata, Kaya hindi tayo una umaasenso dahil sa to much politics in Philippines, magtulongan na lg tayo kong paano natin paunlarin ang Pilipinas.
Ang point po, government funds po. 😅