VP Duterte's counsel claims she approved disclosure of confidential BIR letter

MANILA – Defense counsel Kristine Ferrer has argued that Vice President Sara Duterte authorized the public disclosure of a letter of authority from the Bureau of Internal Revenue, even though the document carries confidential designation.

The letter of authority, issued to Duterte and her husband Manases Carpio, was presented publicly despite containing sensitive tax audit information typically protected under confidentiality rules. Ferrer's assertion that Duterte granted permission for the disclosure appears aimed at addressing concerns about the handling of restricted government documents.

The matter underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding the Vice President's financial records and tax status. The presentation of the confidential BIR correspondence has drawn scrutiny regarding proper protocols for managing sensitive revenue documents.

The defense's position that Duterte consented to the letter's public viewing suggests an effort to preempt accusations of improper disclosure of confidential tax information. The case continues to generate considerable attention as questions persist about the circumstances surrounding the document's handling and release.