April 23, 2026 – Vice President Sara Z. Duterte has issued a strong statement addressing allegations of corruption and political attacks against her, emphasizing her clean track record and calling out the alleged misuse of government institutions for political gain.
Allegations of Billions in Bank Accounts
For nearly a decade, former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV has been raising claims about alleged billions in bank accounts linked to Duterte. However, the Vice President pointed out that these accusations remain unproven, despite being repeatedly brought up since 2016.
Duterte highlighted that the narrative has not changed, but the political machinery backing Trillanes has evolved. She accused the current administration, led by a sitting President, of using government agencies and officials to fuel these allegations:
- Drug Test Challenge: Duterte called on the President to undergo a drug test, questioning his credibility.
- House of Representatives: She criticized certain lawmakers for allegedly receiving “maletas” (suitcases) and bending constitutional limits.
- Commission on Audit (COA): Duterte claimed that COA’s reports are being timed to align with political attacks.
- Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC): She noted the silence of newly-installed AMLC officials, who have yet to clarify that no violations of anti-money laundering laws have been found.
Timing of Allegations
The Vice President also pointed out the suspicious timing of the accusations and cases against her, which began after she resigned from the Cabinet. Duterte revealed that her refusal to sign a national budget she could not defend to the public triggered the wave of political attacks.
Sara Duterte Defends Her Record
In her statement, Duterte firmly defended her integrity:
- She emphasized her clean service record, stating she has never faced any cases involving misuse of public funds.
- All her assets and finances have been declared in her Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN).
- She assured the public that every centavo she owns comes from legitimate sources, backed by proper documentation.
Calls for Accountability
Duterte turned the spotlight on the administration, questioning their silence on critical issues:
- Billions allegedly lost in flood control projects.
- Rising prices of goods, poverty, and hunger.
- Lack of direction in peace talks in Mindanao.
- Absence of a truly independent foreign policy.
- Inaction on crimes affecting Filipinos daily.
A Message to Filipinos
The Vice President urged Filipinos not to be distracted by the noise of impeachment proceedings, emphasizing that the real fight is for the welfare of ordinary citizens facing daily struggles.
“While the administration deepens its abuse of institutions for politics, their fear of accountability becomes more evident,” Duterte stated.
She ended her message with a call for vigilance and focus on the pressing issues affecting the nation.
According to a statement posted on VP Sara Duterte’s Facebook Page: Inday Sara Duterte
