MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte has firmly refuted allegations linking her to the ownership or operation of any fast-food franchise, explaining that a past investment does not translate to managing individual business ventures.
In an official statement issued on Saturday, October 17, Duterte clarified her financial background following inquiries brought up during recent Senate impeachment trial proceedings, where discussions touched upon corporate interests and financial files connected to her.
“I previously invested in a company that is part of a legitimate business organization owned and operated by individuals with an established reputation for integrity and good standing,” Duterte stated.
She further stressed that equity participation does not make an investor the owner or operator of a corporation’s subsidiary branches or commercial outlets.
“Investing in a company does not automatically equate to owning the company itself, much less owning, managing or operating its individual businesses or franchises,” she emphasized.
In addition, the Vice President underscored the necessity of truthfulness and due diligence in media reporting regarding financial assets and corporate activities.
“Accurate reporting requires factual verification, a proper understanding of business ownership, and adherence to the basic principles of responsible journalism,” she noted.
Duterte also voiced apprehension regarding what she views as persistent campaigns aimed at damaging her public standing, pointing out how controversies can unjustly harm commercial enterprises.
“More concerning is the apparent targeting of legitimate businesses, which inevitably causes unwarranted reputational and commercial damage,” she added.
While she addressed the financial allegations, Duterte did not disclose the specific name of the corporation or elaborate on the scale and specifics of her past investment.