Politics · Philippines Bureau
Ridon questions whether VP's husband is oligarch over sports spending
A Bicol party-list representative has challenged Vice President Sara Duterte's husband over massive purchases of sports apparel, suggesting that such patronage is typically associated with oligarchs rather than ordinary citizens.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Bicol Saro party-list Representative Terry Ridon has raised questions about Manases Carpio's classification as a private citizen, citing the substantial amounts spent on basketball team apparel as justification for the inquiry.
Ridon made the comments during the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, suggesting that Carpio's rationale for the large purchases—supporting local basketball teams—is customarily undertaken by major business interests and wealthy individuals rather than private persons.
The remarks underscore growing scrutiny regarding the spending patterns and financial activities of those close to the Vice President as her impeachment trial continues in Congress. The issue touches on broader questions about the role of wealthy individuals in Philippine sports patronage and the distinction between private citizen involvement and oligarchic influence in the sector.
Carpio's purchases of sports apparel for basketball teams have drawn public attention amid the impeachment proceedings, which began following tensions between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Duterte.