Prosecution questions Duterte camp’s stance on China amid impeachment trial

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 27, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Rappler

The House prosecution team has questioned what it described as the Duterte camp’s consistently friendly stance toward China, bringing the issue into the broader discussion surrounding Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial.

House trial spokesperson Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said the assessment was based on public statements and policy positions taken by the Duterte family, dating back to the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Adiong also linked the issue to Gencorp Industries Inc., which Sara Duterte declared as a business interest in her 2024 and 2025 Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth. SEC records presented during the trial, however, did not identify her as an incorporator, director or stockholder of the company.

The prosecution has been examining Gencorp’s government transactions as part of Article II of the impeachment case, which involves allegations concerning Duterte’s wealth declarations and possible business and financial interests.

PhilGEPS records presented to the Senate impeachment court showed that Gencorp secured 49 government contracts worth about P35.9 million during Duterte’s term as vice president, involving the Davao City government, PhilHealth Region XI and OWWA Region XI.

Adiong also pointed to businessman Jaime Tan Cruz, identified in corporate records as Gencorp’s biggest shareholder. Cruz had previously been appointed by then-President Rodrigo Duterte as a special envoy to China for trade and investment, a connection that was raised during the impeachment proceedings.

The prosecution’s statements come as the impeachment court continues examining corporate records, government contracts and Duterte’s SALNs. The significance of those connections, however, remains for the Senate impeachment court to determine as the proceedings continue.