Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. Retains Full Trust Amid Passport Claims
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. continues to enjoy the complete trust and confidence of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., despite recent false claims suggesting he holds dual citizenship and a Maltese passport. These claims, which falsely allege he possesses a passport issued by Malta, a European Union member state, have been firmly denied.
Palace officials have refrained from speculating on the motives behind the erroneous report about Secretary Teodoro’s citizenship status. However, they emphasized the President’s unwavering support for him. “But what we can say now is that the President gives confidence to Secretary Teodoro. He still enjoys the trust and confidence of the President,” said Palace press officer Undersecretary Claire Castro during a briefing on Tuesday.
Clarification on Maltese Passport Allegations
Undersecretary Castro confirmed that President Marcos Jr. is fully aware that Teodoro renounced his Maltese citizenship years ago. “This is in the records of the Commission on Elections and the Commission on Appointments. They know this information,” she added.
Earlier, the Department of National Defense (DND) issued a statement clarifying a news report claiming Teodoro was a dual citizen because he was issued a Maltese passport on December 22, 2016. DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong explained, “The alleged existing Maltese passport of Sec. Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. was surrendered and renounced prior to the filing of his certificate of candidacy in 2021 for the 2022 elections.” This confirms that Teodoro complied with all legal requirements for holding public office.
Teodoro’s Career and Citizenship Status
Gilberto Teodoro Jr. first served as Defense Secretary from 2007 to 2009 under then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. He was noted as the second youngest to hold the post after Ramon Magsaysay. Recently, President Marcos appointed him again as Defense Secretary on June 5, 2023, just days before his 59th birthday.
Teodoro ran for senator in the 2022 national elections but did not win. It is important to note that dual citizens are eligible to hold public office in the Philippines, provided they renounce any foreign citizenship beforehand. Teodoro has fulfilled this requirement, which is documented by election and appointment bodies.
Despite the false accusations, Secretary Teodoro’s integrity and loyalty remain intact in the eyes of the administration. This incident highlights the importance of verifying information before drawing conclusions, especially when public figures’ reputations are at stake.
For more news and updates on Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., visit Filipinokami.com.
