The House Committee on Justice voted 38-6 to keep sealed the box containing the tax records of Vice President Sara Duterte and her husband Manases Carpio, blocking a move to open the documents for review during the panel’s proceedings.
Lawmakers who pushed to unseal the box aimed to examine the records directly to verify claims tied to the complaint, including allegations of unexplained wealth. The documents were subpoenaed earlier by the panel from the Bureau of Internal Revenue and secured in a sealed box, with the committee tasked to decide whether they could be opened and reviewed as part of its evaluation.
Among those who voted to open the records were Leila de Lima, Representative Percival Cendaña, and members of the Makabayan Bloc. They formed the minority in the decision.
The sealed box contains income tax returns submitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue. The documents were earlier produced following a subpoena issued by the House panel as part of its inquiry. The committee had the option to open the box in session but ultimately chose not to proceed.
During earlier discussions, BIR Commissioner Charlito Mendoza raised legal limits on accessing tax records.
“The tax returns can only be examined if two requirements are met: in aid of legislation and in an executive session,” he said.
De Lima countered this position, asserting Congress’ authority in impeachment proceedings.
“I take the stronger legal position that Congress, in its impeachment capacity, can compel the production of ITRs of an impeachable official,” she said.
The decision keeps the contents of the records undisclosed. No findings were made about what is inside the box. For now, the vote halts any immediate scrutiny of the financial documents.
The issue carries weight for the public as it touches on transparency and accountability at the highest level of government. The committee’s action reflects a split within the chamber, with the majority opting to maintain confidentiality while a smaller group pushed for disclosure.
