Duterte vows to explain wealth ‘in due time’

DAVAO CITY , Philippines  —  Just wait. 

President Duterte said he is going to explain his family’s wealth “in due time.”

The President brushed off a three-part series of the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), which scrutinized not only his wealth but also those of other members of his family.

“Don’t believe the trash the opposition is throwing. I will explain it. I will explain it in due time,” Duterte said during the PDP-Laban campaign rally in Bacolod City on Thursday.

If he is truly wealthy, he said he did not intend to disclose where he is keeping the money. 

“Am I that rich? I’ll hide it. Why would I tell you where my riches are?” Duterte said. 

He noted that the investigative report of the PCIJ was timed for the election campaign in an effort to destroy him and his family.

The PCIJ, however, maintained their report is based solely on what was registered in the statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) of the President, his daughter Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and son former vice mayor Paolo Duterte.

While Malacañang challenged the critics, Sara insisted whatever money the family has came from their business and other sources of income as she and her husband Manases Carpio are both lawyers. 

Sara stressed their money is hard-earned income, not ill-gotten wealth.