Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will adhere to existing laws and due process concerning the potential disclosure of Vice President Sara Duterte's tax and bank records in relation to her impeachment trial, Malaca±ang stated on Thursday. Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro affirmed that any actions regarding the release of tax or bank records would be dictated by applicable legal frameworks.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro labeled concerns over potential legal violations as 'speculative' should the Senate, acting as an impeachment court, order the opening of these records. She clarified that courts, including the Court of Tax Appeals, do not require the President's permission to access tax records if they pertain to tax fraud or evasion.

Castro emphasized that it would be premature to assume any laws or constitutional provisions would be violated, as the situation remains hypothetical. She noted that President Marcos has consistently stood by the principle that all government actions must adhere to legally prescribed processes. The President is committed to upholding and complying with legal procedures.

Recently, the Senate impeachment court approved the prosecution's request to subpoena Duterte's tax records. Under Section 71 of Republic Act No. 8424, the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, documents such as Income Tax Returns and taxpayer lists may be inspected upon a presidential order. Section 270 of the same act penalizes unauthorized disclosure by the Bureau of Internal Revenue but acknowledges exceptions outlined in Section 71 of the NIRC and Section 26 of Republic Act No. 6388, the Election Code.