MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Friday emphasized that allegations linking a firm connected to Vice President Sara Duterte’s husband to the Chinese government must be thoroughly investigated if supported by credible evidence, warning that such acts could constitute a betrayal of the nation.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the remarks in response to claims raised by former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV during a press conference on Friday, October 2.
Trillanes presented documents detailing financial transactions allegedly tied to Duterte and her relatives, including over ₱319 million in foreign funds transferred from Chinese state entities and private companies to Cale88 Foods Corporation—a firm associated with the Vice President’s husband, Atty. Manases “Mans” Carpio.
Commenting on the matter through a text message to reporters, Castro underscored that the claims require serious scrutiny if substantiated.
”Kung sapat ang ebidensya, hindi ito dapat isawalang bahala,” Castro said.
Castro warned that if proven true, such arrangements would represent a grave breach of public trust, particularly given the public positions held by the figures involved.
”Maituturing na pagtataksil sa bayan ang mga Filipino lalo na kung sila ay mga public official na kaya pala tahimik sa mga karahasang natatanggap ng iba nating mangingisda sa kamay ng mga dayuhan at ang iba naman ay handang ipamigay ang parte ng ating teritoryo o karapatan sa WPS ay dahil natatapalan ng pera ang kanilang mga mata para talikuran ang pagmamahal sa sariling bayan at ibenta ang ating kalayaan,” Castro added.
The official clarified that the Marcos administration is maintaining neutrality for now, but stressed the public’s right to be informed should the claims be validated.
”Walang paghuhusga sa ngayon ang administrasyon ngunit dapat malaman ito ng mga kababayan natin kung may sapat naman na ebidensya,” the Palace official said.
Castro further called on the public and authorities to reject any actions that compromise national sovereignty.
”Ang mga kumukunsinte sa ganitong gawain ay dapat na kalusin hindi bukas, kundi ngayon! Huwag natin hayaan ang ibang opisyal pa natin ang siyang dudurog sa sarili nating bansa. Gumising tayong lahat!” Castro stressed.