Vice President Sara Duterte faced scrutiny over bank records during her impeachment trial, with critics suggesting she shifted responsibility to her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. A Bicol Saro party-list representative, Terry Ridon, noted that Duterte’s defense appeared to deflect blame toward her father. Ridon made the remark following Duterte’s impeachment trial on Wednesday, during which she was detained.
Prosecutors alleged that a joint bank account between Sara Duterte and her father was used to purchase approximately P96 million in manager’s checks. These checks were not reflected in the account’s year-end balance, according to a prosecution lawyer. The financial discrepancy became a key point in the impeachment proceedings.
This situation follows a broader political controversy surrounding the Duterte family’s financial dealings. The joint account in question is part of ongoing investigations into potential misuse of public funds. The impeachment trial has intensified scrutiny on the family’s financial transparency, with legal experts highlighting the need for clear accountability. The case underscores the challenges of separating personal and public finances in high-profile political roles.
