Business · Philippines Bureau
Undeclared cash in SALN violates law, court official testifies
A retired Sandiganbayan justice testified that public officials must separately declare cash on hand and cash in bank accounts in their statements of assets and liabilities. The testimony came during legal proceedings challenging compliance with transparency requirements.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Retired Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang told the court Monday that failing to separately declare cash on hand and cash in bank in a public official's Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) contravenes Republic Act 6713.
The law requires specific itemization of different asset categories in mandatory financial disclosures filed by government officials and employees, according to Cabotaje-Tang's testimony. Combining these cash entries into a single figure would therefore constitute non-compliance with statutory requirements.
The testimony emerged during legal proceedings examining whether public officials have properly fulfilled their disclosure obligations under the Republic Act, which mandates transparency in the financial affairs of government personnel.
Cabotaje-Tang's statement underscores the importance of detailed asset reporting in the SALN process, a cornerstone mechanism designed to prevent corruption and ensure public accountability among officeholders. The requirement for separate declaration of distinct asset categories aims to provide a comprehensive and accurate picture of officials' financial positions.