MANILA – A bullied supporter from Antique province will be one of her inspirations when she officially starts serving as the second highest official of the country by June 30, according to Vice President-elect Sara Duterte-Carpio.
In a statement following her proclamation in Congress on Wednesday night, Duterte-Carpio dedicated her new job to Antiqueño supporter Fredrick Mark Bico Alba, among others.
Alba was a 23-year-old third year college student at the University of Antique in San Jose de Buenavista town.
He was believed to have committed suicide early this month after allegedly being bullied on social media for supporting Duterte-Carpio and running mate, the now President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“The opportunity to serve as Vice President, I dedicate to Kean Gabriel, to Larry, to Jaren, and Fredrick, and all those who passed because of terrorism, abuse, criminality, and bullying,” said Duterte-Carpio.
Hours before her proclamation, Duterte-Carpio visited Alba’s wake in San Jose de Buenavista.
Alba was found dead in their house in San Jose de Buenavista in the morning of May 6.
The San Jose police station launched an investigation although Police Staff Sergeant Albert Talidong, investigator, said foul play was a remote possibility.
“Thank you for the opportunity to save lives,” said Duterte-Carpio. “Ang akong pagdaog mooy kadaugan sa inyong tanan nitabang, nanikamot ug nisuporta kanako.”
During her quick Antique visit on Wednesday morning, Duterte-Carpio was accompanied by Antique governor Rhodora Cadiao, a supporter.
She flew back to Manila shortly for her proclamation.
Cadiao herself expressed sadness, too, over the death of Alba.
“This experience taught us a terrible lesson; that in the pursuit of supporting ideas, we become monsters that we seek to vanquish. This is sad, terrible, and worthy of utmost condemnation. I say this again and again, we may differ in our expression yet this must not diminish our humanity. Be reminded always that words are powerful, it can drive a person to his grave,” said Cadiao./PN
