Background on the OVP’s 90th Anniversary
The Office of the Vice President (OVP) celebrated its 90th anniversary on Friday, November 14, in a ceremony hosted by Sara Duterte. It was described by insiders as a mini-reunion of power players, drawing current officials, allied lawmakers, and several former leaders. Yet, not every former vice president attended in person, prompting questions about why several prominent figures were absent.
What Ex-Vice Presidents Might Have Been Thinking
In political circles, the attendance of former vice presidents at such milestone events is often driven by a mix of personal, logistical, and strategic considerations. While the invitation list can be extensive, several key factors commonly influence decisions to appear or stay away.
1) Scheduling Conflicts and Prior Commitments
Former officeholders frequently juggle multiple engagements, from political events to private sector work, family commitments, and international obligations. A date that coincides with travel, negotiations, or legal proceedings can make in-person attendance impractical. In many cases, a simple calendar clash is cited as the primary reason for absence, with aides coordinating to send regrets or to arrange a surrogate presence.
2) Health and Mobility Considerations
Age and health considerations are relevant for any body of elder statesmen. Illness, recovery from procedures, or mobility constraints can affect the ability to participate in long ceremonies or formal receptions. When former officials opt out for health reasons, organizers often emphasize that a representative or video message is appropriate, ensuring their support is acknowledged without compromising comfort and safety.
3) Political Posturing and Messaging
Anniversaries of government institutions can become stages for signaling political alignment. Some former vice presidents who drifted ideologically from the current administration may choose to decline a public appearance as a strategic move to avoid being perceived as lending legitimacy to a rival political narrative. In other cases, subtextual signals—supportive messages, or the sending of a deputy—can convey stance without a full in-person appearance.
4) Health of the Serviceable Relationship with the Administration
Relationships between former officials and the current administration are not static. Past disagreements, policy tensions, or differences over governance styles can influence decisions about attendance. Some former vice presidents might prefer to maintain a subdued public profile during the anniversary rather than participate in a high-profile reunion, particularly if their public messaging is intended to chart a distinct course going forward.
What Attendees and Absences Communicate
Even when not present in person, former vice presidents can play a role through messages, recorded tributes, or sending trusted deputies. The mix of attendees and absences often reflects a balance between respect for institutional milestones and the evolving landscape of party politics and personal schedules.
Implications for the Office of the Vice President
Milestone celebrations like the OVP’s 90th anniversary serve less as a single-day spectacle and more as an opportunity to reaffirm the office’s continuity, legitimacy, and relevance. The absence of some former leaders can spark public curiosity, but it also highlights the diverse pathways through which senior statespersons engage with government institutions—whether through formal appearances, written messages, or behind-the-scenes involvement.
Looking Ahead
As the OVP continues to evolve, future anniversaries may see a broader spectrum of former vice presidents in attendance, or continued variations based on the political and personal realities of the individuals involved. In any case, the event underscored the enduring role of the Office of the Vice President within the country’s political fabric, and the ongoing dialogue between past, present, and future leaders.
