The House Committee on Justice has escalated its impeachment proceedings by issuing a subpoena against the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), demanding access to the tax records of Vice President Sara Duterte and her spouse, Atty. Manases Carpio. This move is a critical step in the ongoing investigation into allegations that could lead to a Senate trial.
Subpoena Details and Legal Mandate
In an order dated March 31, 2026, the committee has directed BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza to appear before a hearing scheduled for April 14, 2026. The subpoena requires the submission of comprehensive documents related to the couple's tax compliance and reported income, specifically targeting certified true copies of their Income Tax Returns (ITR) from 2007 to 2025.
Scope of the Investigation
Beyond personal tax filings, the subpoena extends to records of various companies and businesses suspected to be linked to Vice President Duterte and her husband. These entities include Metro City Chow Foods Corp., Gencorp Industries Inc., and Carpio Lawyers, among others. The committee aims to verify and authenticate information submitted to the BIR in connection with the complaints filed against the Vice President.
Committee Leadership and Next Steps
The subpoena was formally signed by Justice Committee Chairperson Gerville "Jinky Bitrics" Luistro and Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III. Currently, the panel is meticulously reviewing whether the complaints provide sufficient grounds to advance the case to the plenary for a potential impeachment trial in the Senate. This process underscores the rigorous scrutiny applied in high-profile political investigations.
As the April 14 hearing approaches, all eyes are on the BIR's response and the potential implications for the impeachment proceedings. The outcome could significantly impact the political landscape, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in governance.
