Marcos Approves Release of Duterte's Tax Records for Trial

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines has approved the release of Vice President Sara Duterte’s tax records to the Senate for her impeachment trial, where she is accused of accumulating unexplained wealth while in office. This decision was communicated by Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro.

Duterte has denied any wrongdoing, labeling the impeachment as politically motivated. The Senate, acting as an impeachment court, is scheduled to resume the trial on August 3.

Under Philippine law, the Bureau of Internal Revenue can only disclose confidential tax records with presidential consent. Although the Senate had previously subpoenaed these records, their release was delayed due to taxpayer confidentiality laws.

Additionally, the Senate has requested financial records from banks and the Anti-Money Laundering Council related to Duterte and her husband. The allegations against Duterte include misuse of public funds, bribery, and corruption.

A conviction would necessitate the support of at least 16 of the Senate's 24 members and could threaten her anticipated presidential bid in 2028.