Malacañang on Wednesday asserted that figures demanding full disclosure regarding President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s official travel should practice the same openness regarding their own activities, maintaining that the chief executive’s trip expenses and outcomes have consistently been made public.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the remark in response to Vice President Sara Duterte, who earlier called on Malacañang to publicly release all travel authorities issued to government officials, along with itemized breakdowns of travel expenses and public funds utilized.
“Kung sino ‘yung nag de-demand ng transparency, dapat maging transparent din siya sa kanyang mga activities,” Castro said.
Responding directly to concerns over public expenditures, Castro underscored that the administration maintains strict compliance and proper documentation for all presidential travel.
“At patungkol sa budget, hindi din po ito tinatago, kumpletong resibo, walang peke, walang alias,” she added.
Castro assured that the administration remains ready to provide details regarding presidential travel upon request, noting that disclosure practices apply uniformly without singling out any official.
She emphasized that Marcos has maintained transparency throughout his foreign engagements, routinely providing public reports on his trips through arrival statements, press briefings, and open media coverage.
Duterte was initially set to depart for Japan on Wednesday but canceled the trip on Tuesday, citing concerns over the public release and publication of her travel details.
Clearing up the issue, Castro explained that Malacañang simply verified the issuance of a travel authority for the Vice President after reporters inquired about the upcoming trip.