NSC to Probe Reported China-linked Financial Flows Involving Duterte Family Businesses

 

The National Security Council is set to examine reported financial transactions involving China and Philippine companies allegedly connected to the family of Vice President Sara Duterte, as authorities assess whether the transactions could have implications for national security.

National Security Adviser Eduardo Oban Jr. said the information raised during Duterte’s ongoing Senate impeachment proceedings will be reviewed and referred to appropriate intelligence and investigative agencies. The NSC will also coordinate with other government institutions to determine whether the reported financial activity warrants further action.

The inquiry follows allegations involving substantial foreign financial flows that have been raised in connection with companies reportedly associated with the Duterte family. Authorities have emphasized that the claims must undergo proper verification and remain subject to established legal procedures.

Oban said the NSC considers credible information involving significant foreign funding a matter that requires careful examination, particularly when such transactions could potentially intersect with national security concerns.

The issue has also drawn attention from Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., who previously addressed allegations raised by former senator Antonio Trillanes IV concerning supposed Chinese financial connections.

Teodoro said that if the allegations are supported by evidence, they could carry serious national security consequences. He urged Trillanes to submit whatever evidence he possesses to law enforcement authorities so investigators can establish the facts and determine whether any laws or security protocols were violated.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has likewise acknowledged the potential security dimension of foreign financing allegations.

Retired rear admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the AFP spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, pointed to the NSC’s decision to have relevant agencies examine the matter. He said that should the allegations eventually be substantiated, the transactions could have security implications.

At this stage, the reported financial links remain allegations and have not been established as fact. The NSC investigation is expected to determine the nature of the transactions, the parties involved, the source and purpose of the funds, and whether any activity could affect Philippine national security.

The investigation places the issue within a broader government effort to scrutinize foreign financial activity that could potentially influence political, economic, or strategic interests in the Philippines.