Malacañang on Wednesday, December 17, criticized Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte over his reported overseas trips, amid lingering questions on accountability and corruption issues involving members of the Duterte family.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stressed that public officials, particularly lawmakers, are expected to focus on their legislative duties rather than frequent travel.
“Para umanlad ang bansa, magtrabaho tayong lahat. Ang mga mambabatas ay obligadong gumawa ng magagandang batas para sa bayan at mamamayan,” Castro said.
“Kapag puro bakasyon at world tour ang gagawin ng isang public servant, wala talaga siyang maiintindihan at wala siyang gagawin kundi iwasan ang isyu ng korapsyon na kinakaharap niya.”
Castro’s remarks followed online and political discussions questioning Duterte’s foreign travels, including whether proper authority was secured and how often he has been abroad while Congress remains in session.
The Palace comments also come amid renewed scrutiny of the Duterte camp, following plunder and graft complaints filed against Vice President Sara Duterte over alleged misuse of confidential funds, as well as unresolved accountability issues from past administrations.
Paolo Duterte, whose father former President Rodrigo Duterte is detained in The Hague, earlier sought clearance to travel to 17 countries.