Metro Manila, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte said she has changed her overseas travel plans after the Office of the President approved her trip authorization only hours before her intended departure.
In a statement Thursday, Duterte criticized the timing of the approval for her planned travel from April 23 to May 15, saying it created uncertainty over whether she would be allowed to leave.
“Thank you for the last-minute issuance of the travel authority. I regret to inform you that the plans have since changed due to uncertainty whether I will be permitted to depart,” she said.
Duterte said she would submit a new request and urged authorities to process such documents earlier.
“You will be receiving a new request soon. Please ensure that the necessary documents be processed and issued promptly, allowing sufficient time for travel preparations rather than only a few hours before the intended departure,” she added.
She also raised concerns over the reported leak of her travel details, warning it could pose risks to her security.
“Ensuring the confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive documents would greatly contribute to maintaining effective security arrangements,” Duterte said.
Malacañang earlier confirmed granting travel authority for Duterte’s planned visits to the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Korea.
Duterte’s travel plans come as she faces scrutiny amid ongoing impeachment proceedings in the House of Representatives.
