Manila, July 1 -- Malacanang on Wednesday said Sen. Imee Marcos' latest attacks against the administration appear to be part of a broader effort to remove her brother, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., from office in favor of her political ally, Vice President Sara Duterte.

Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said it is "obvious" that the senator's remarks during a rally in Quezon City were intended to malign the administration.

"Namutawi kay Senator Imee Marcos ang mga salitang magpapaigting ng galit sa gobyerno - ang paninira sa Pangulo at sa gobyernong ito. Nakakaawa, nakakaawa ang mga obstructionists na tulad ng isang senadora (Senator Imee Marcos uttered words that would amplify anger against the government ...