Government Officials Must Undergo Lifestyle Check, Senator Zubiri Says
Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri has called for a mandatory lifestyle check on all government officials, including senators. This demand comes amid President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for the entire executive branch to undergo lifestyle assessments as part of broader scrutiny on flood control initiatives.
“Lifestyle checks should be for everyone, both appointed and elected, because we are not exempt from these lifestyle checks,” Zubiri emphasized during an online interview. He urged that such evaluations be applied uniformly to uphold transparency across all government sectors.
Matching Wealth With Income
The senator raised concerns about politicians who display extravagant lifestyles that do not align with their declared earnings. “There are politicians who have no [other] income, other than their income from being a politician, and you see them driving a Rolls-Royce, a Ferrari. Where do they get these expensive cars?” he questioned.
Zubiri stressed the importance of aligning officials’ assets with their tax declarations to ensure accountability. He pointed out that possessions should correspond to income reported to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and other lawful sources.
Independent Oversight Needed
In the same conversation, the senator proposed creating a “third-party” body to oversee government officials. This group would include members from civil society to ensure impartial monitoring.
“We also have civil society involved. I think these are things that we have to take into consideration because what if you have a colleague there who will be hit?” Zubiri remarked, highlighting the need for checks on those in power.
Extending Lifestyle Checks to Agencies
Beyond elected officials, Zubiri recommended that key agencies also undergo lifestyle evaluations. “The BIR, the Bureau of Customs — those agencies are also notorious in the past for having this type of lifestyle. So I think the lifestyle check should be done for all of them,” he said.
He further emphasized that civil society participation is crucial to ensure “someone watches over the watchers,” reinforcing transparency and integrity in government operations.
For more news and updates on lifestyle check government officials, visit Filipinokami.com.
