VP Duterte clarifies she does not own Jollibee franchise

MANILA—Vice President Sara Duterte on Saturday moved to clear up confusion surrounding her business interests, stating unequivocally that she does not own a Jollibee franchise or any other franchise operation.

Duterte's statement comes amid scrutiny of her financial connections to GenCorp Industries Inc., the food company that operates Jollibee outlets. The Vice President emphasized that holding an investment in a parent company differs fundamentally from owning or controlling individual franchise locations.

"I do not own a Jollibee franchise or any other franchise. I previously invested in a company that is part of the broader organization," Duterte said, drawing a distinction between equity investment and direct operational ownership.

The clarification addresses public questions about potential conflicts of interest or undisclosed business ties. GenCorp Industries operates one of the Philippines' largest fast food chains, making the distinction between investor and operator a matter of public concern.

Duterte's statement underscores ongoing discussions about transparency in public officials' financial holdings and business relationships in the country.

Photo: Vice President Sara Duterte (left) receives Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong in Manila, May 2023. Sarah Friend, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0).