DND clarifies Teodoro’s citizenship

DEFENSE SECRETARY Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. has renounced his Maltese citizenship prior to his appointment, a Department of Defense (DND) spokesman said on Monday, after a Philippine newspaper reported that the Defense chief previously held a Malta passport

In a statement, Defense department spokesman Arsenio R. Andolong said Philippine authorities were already aware that Mr. Teodoro held a Maltese passport as early as 2021 and noted that it was also disclosed to the Commission on Appointments during his confirmation hearings.

“The alleged existing Maltese passport of Secretary Gilberto Teodoro was surrendered and renounced prior to the filing of his certificate of candidacy in 2021 for the 2022 elections,” Mr. Andolong said. “Its existence was disclosed to the Bureau of Immigration and Comelec prior to the 2022 elections.”

The Manila Times reported on Monday that Mr. Teodoro was issued a Maltese passport in 2016.

A 2017 report by the Malta Government Gazette listed the Defense chief as among individuals naturalized and registered as Maltese citizens.

Mr. Teodoro said the motive behind spreading the rumor is “clear and known.” He did not elaborate. — Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio