Vice President Sara Duterte strongly condemned the alleged unauthorized use of her minor child’s photograph to spread false information.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Duterte emphasized that she has never used her children to advance her personal interests.

“Hindi ko kailanman ginamit ang aking mga anak sa pagsulong ng aking interes, at mahigpit ko silang pinagbabawalan na makisali sa mga usaping politika sa labas ng aming tahanan,” she said.

She also warned against using children in spreading false information amid the country’s current political climate.

“Huwag nating hayaang magamit ang mga bata sa pagpapakalat ng fake news sa maruming mundo ng politika ngayon,” she added.

Meanwhile, following the release of the vice president’s statement, a message circulating on social media was also linked to her child.

The message read: “Please take care of my mother Inday Sara Duterte, she had dedicated her life for the welfare of the nation.”

Despite this, Duterte reiterated the importance of protecting minors from being dragged into political issues.

“Ang proteksyon ng kabataan-anak ko man o hindi-ay responsibilidad nating lahat,” the vice president said.