Baste Duterte: 'No Knowledge' of Sister VP Sara's Ties to GenCorp

Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte has stated he had “no knowledge” that his sister, Vice President Sara Duterte, held an interest in GenCorp Industries Inc. This comes after a government procurement official testified that the food catering company secured 15 contracts worth P34.2 million during his time as mayor. GenCorp Industries Inc. is a company that has secured contracts with government agencies within the Philippine public procurement system. The testimony raises questions about potential conflicts of interest between politicians, their families, and government agencies, as well as the transparency of the procurement process. Mayor Duterte’s claim of ignorance could potentially obscure political accountability for this matter, drawing public attention. In the Philippines, instances where the families of politicians are involved in businesses that lead to public contracts are often scrutinized by the public. Particularly in public procurement, where taxpayers' money is used, fairness, transparency, and accountability are strongly demanded. The possibility that contracts awarded to GenCorp Industries Inc. may have been influenced by political connections cannot be ruled out. This issue is likely to prompt further discussion on the code of ethics in Philippine politics and the regulations concerning the business activities of public officials' families. Further investigation and explanations are expected to be required.