By Darryl John Esguerra

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (PNA file photo by Joan Bondoc)

MANILA – Mayors across the country have expressed support to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. following the “kill order” of Vice President Sara Duterte, which they branded as a “threat” to democracy.

In a manifesto, the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP), which consists of town mayors in the country, expressed their “unwavering support” to the President.

This follows the controversial online threat of Duterte, who claimed in an expletive-laden online news conference that she has hired an assassin to kill Marcos, First Lady Liza Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez if the supposed plot to kill her were to succeed.

“The recent pronouncement of Vice President Sara Duterte not only threatens the life of the Head of the Philippine Government but also endangers our democracy,” the LMP said in the manifesto released Saturday.

The mayors then called for restraint and accountability amid the issue involving the second highest official of the land.

“Leadership demands a higher standard of conduct that prioritizes the welfare of the Filipinos above personal or political interests,” the LMP said.

“We reject any threats of violence or actions that may undermine the safety and stability of our nation. As local elected officials who are mandated to look after the welfare of our people, we are calling on our fellow public servants and the Filipino people to rally behind the President,” it added.

“The LMP trusts that President Marcos will continue to lead with integrity and compassion, fostering an environment where democracy and progress thrive.”

The government is conducting a full-blown investigation over the vice president’s remarks, with the Department of Justice and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) at the helm.

On Tuesday afternoon, the NBI issued a subpoena on Duterte to allow her to explain her pronouncements. (PNA)