Manila: Malaca±ang on Monday expressed support for lifting restrictions on public access to Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs), indicating a readiness from the Executive branch, including President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., to comply with any new transparency measures.

According to Philippines News Agency, new Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced plans to issue a memorandum that would reverse prohibitions on SALN access imposed during the Duterte administration. These restrictions, enacted through Memorandum Circular No. 1 in September 2020 by the Office of the Ombudsman, severely limited access to SALNs by requiring the consent of the official involved or a court order, effectively blocking media and civil society from independently reviewing wealth disclosures.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the Executive is prepared to align with reforms that promote accountability. 'Kung ano naman po ang nararapat at kung ano ang sinasabi ng batas at kung ano ang makakabuti para malabanan ang korapsiyon ay tatalima naman po ang lahat ng nasa executive department (Whatever is proper, lawful, and helpful in fighting corruption will be followed by everyone in the Executive branch),' Castro said in a Palace press briefing.

Asked if President Marcos would release his SALN should access be restored, Castro responded: 'Lahat po ng nasa executive department, handa po (Everyone in the Executive department is ready).'

Under Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, all government officials and employees are required to file their SALNs annually. The document is meant to serve as a tool against illicit enrichment by tracking changes in officials' declared wealth.

Transparency advocates have long pushed for the re-opening of public access to SALNs, arguing that full disclosure is essential in deterring corruption and rebuilding public trust.