Palace reaffirms no one above law as questions swirl over VP Duterte's corporate ties

MANILA — The Philippine government on Tuesday reasserted its commitment to equal application of the law as scrutiny intensifies over Vice President Sara Duterte's ongoing business interests.

The Palace's statement came in response to Securities and Exchange Commission records indicating that Duterte retained her director and shareholder positions in a private company despite assuming the vice presidency in June 2022.

Official records raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and compliance with regulations governing public officials' financial disclosures and business holdings. Government officials have traditionally been required to divest from or place business interests in blind trusts upon taking office to avoid conflicts.

The Palace's assertion that "no one is above the law" underscores the administration's stated position on accountability and transparency in public service. The statement, however, did not address specific details regarding the nature of the company in question or clarify whether exemptions or special arrangements apply in Duterte's case.

The matter is likely to draw continued attention from transparency advocates and lawmakers monitoring compliance with government ethics regulations affecting senior officials.