Former UniTeam tandem President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte allegedly received millions in donations from government contractors during the 2022 national elections, according to a report released by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ).
Based on PCIJ’s review of statements of contributions and expenses (SOCE) submitted to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Marcos received a total of ₱21 million from Rudhil Construction & Enterprises Inc. and Quirante Construction Corporation, owned by Rodulfo Hilot Jr. and Jonathan Quirante.
Meanwhile, Esdevco Realty Corporation, owned by businessman Glenn Escandor, reportedly paid for Duterte’s political advertisements worth ₱19.9 million.
PCIJ noted that some of the contractors mentioned had active government contracts either before or during the 2022 polls. Under the 1985 Omnibus Election Code, candidates are prohibited from receiving donations from contractors with government projects.
As of press time, both the Office of the President and the Office of the Vice President have yet to release an official statement in response to the PCIJ report.