News in photos: Sara Duterte, Arroyo in a QC meeting after the former President’s election as Speaker

(Eagle News) — In these pictures courtesy of a member of Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s staff, Davao Mayor Sara Duterte and Arroyo are seen together in a meeting of House of Representatives members  at a Quezon City hotel.

The meeting reportedly took place after Arroyo was elected as the Lower House’s new leader.

Prior to Arroyo’s election, there were rumors it was the Davao mayor who wanted the former President to replace Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez.

The presidential daughter had engaged in a word war with Alvarez, who called her a member of the opposition after she established the Hugpong ng Pagbabago, a regional political party.

Duterte denied this, saying the move had the blessing of her father, President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Palace has also denied it was the Davao mayor who was behind Alvarez’s ouster.

Davao Mayor Sara Duterte is seen smiling with Arroyo at the meeting venue.
Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is seen speaking in the meeting.