Lawmaker Demands VP Duterte Clarify P100M Assets Gap in SALN Filing

MANILA – Representative Terry L. Ridon raised questions Monday about significant discrepancies in Vice President Sara Duterte's financial disclosure, alleging that more than P100 million in various holdings were not reflected in her 2023 SALN filing.

Ridon, serving as a House prosecutor, presented the challenge during a press briefing, citing bank deposits, investment accounts, and insurance policies that he contends should have been included in the official financial statement required of all public officials.

The discrepancy highlights ongoing scrutiny of the Vice President's financial records and raises questions about the completeness of her statutory disclosure requirements. Officials are expected to fully declare all assets, liabilities, and net worth in their annual SALN filings as part of transparency and accountability measures.

The development adds to recent tensions between Duterte and the House of Representatives, where calls for explanation on various matters have become increasingly common. The Vice President's office has not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the alleged assets gap.

The SALN filing requirement serves as a key mechanism for monitoring potential conflicts of interest and unexplained wealth among government officials. The apparent omission of substantial holdings from the Vice President's disclosure raises broader questions about compliance with transparency protocols.