GROUPS SLAM POLONG’S FREQUENT FOREIGN TRIPS
Several civic and sectoral groups have raised concerns over the reported frequency of foreign trips by Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo “Polong” Duterte. According to initial information from organizers of these groups, they are questioning whether the lawmaker’s overseas travels align with his legislative workload and responsibilities to constituents. Statements circulated online claim that Duterte has been seen in a number of foreign destinations in recent months, though detailed itineraries have not been made public. As of now, there are no confirmed details from the House of Representatives regarding the official nature, funding source, or approvals for these trips.
Based on preliminary reports, some organizations are urging greater transparency on the purpose of each foreign visit, particularly if the travel is charged to public funds. Advocates say they want clearer distinctions between official missions, personal vacations, and politically related engagements abroad. They also point out that lawmakers are expected to balance travel with attendance at committee hearings, plenary sessions, and local consultations. While no formal complaint has been filed, several groups are reportedly studying whether to seek an inquiry through the appropriate congressional or ethics channels.
In Davao City, local observers and community leaders are said to be monitoring the issue, especially in relation to basic services and district-level projects. Some residents interviewed by local media outlets, based on preliminary reports, have expressed interest in seeing more visible on-the-ground engagement from their representative. Others, however, have noted that national lawmakers often travel for conferences, study visits, or official delegations, and caution against drawing conclusions without complete documentation. As of now, there are no confirmed details on whether Duterte’s recent trips were part of such official activities.
House officials and Duterte’s office have yet to issue a detailed public explanation on the matter, according to initial information from reporters covering the lower chamber. Policy analysts say the controversy underscores recurring calls for stricter disclosure rules on foreign travel by public officials, including the publication of trip purposes, costs, and outputs. They add that clearer guidelines could help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that travel is tied to measurable benefits for constituents. As of now, there are no confirmed details on any planned review of travel protocols, but the discussion is expected to continue as watchdog groups maintain
