Ombudsman officer testifies VP Duterte reported zero cash holdings for six years

MANILA – An official from the Office of the Ombudsman provided testimony during the 25th day of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, stating that financial records show the vice president reported zero cash on hand and zero bank deposits across a six-year period ending in 2025.

The prosecution presented Duterte's Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs) as documentary evidence during Tuesday's proceedings. SALNs are mandatory annual financial disclosures required of all government officials under Philippine law and are typically used to track changes in officials' wealth and detect potential illicit enrichment.

The testimony marks a significant moment in the trial, which has centered on allegations regarding the source and growth of Duterte's personal wealth. Prosecutors are scrutinizing the discrepancies between her reported financial position and other evidence they claim demonstrates substantial asset accumulation during the period in question.

The impeachment trial, now in its fourth week, continues to examine the vice president's financial records and statements made under oath. The case has drawn significant public attention as it involves one of the country's highest-ranking officials and raises questions about government accountability and transparency in financial disclosures.

The trial is expected to resume with additional witness testimony and documentary evidence presentation in coming sessions.