Malacañang on Wednesday confirmed that Vice President Sara Duterte’s foreign travels, including her recent short trip to Paris after visiting Kuwait, were cleared with the proper travel authority from the Office of the President.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said Duterte’s trips complied with the requirements, noting that she was authorized to travel abroad on the dates she chose.
“Her trip to Kuwait pushed through, and that had travel authority, so she is free to leave on the days she wants. It was cleared,” Castro told reporters in a Palace briefing.
The statement comes as Duterte has reportedly gone on 11 foreign trips since assuming office, outnumbering President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s at least five overseas visits during the same period.
Asked if the Palace supports calls from lawmakers for the release of all travel records of public officials, including those of the Vice President, Castro said the matter lies with the officials themselves.
“It’s their obligation. If they want to release [their records], it’s up to them,” Castro said.
“As for the President, whenever he travels, the media is informed, reports are made, and updates are given about possible investments and tourism gains,” she added.
Duterte earlier challenged lawmakers to disclose their own travel records after some sectors questioned the frequency of her trips abroad.
