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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Change of plans: VP Sara flags 'last-minute' issuance of travel authority, cites security concerns

Change of plans: VP Sara flags 'last-minute' issuance of travel authority, cites security concerns

Duterte raises concerns over delayed travel authority issuance and calls for timely processing and confidentiality of official documents

Published Apr 23, 2026 09:08 am
Vice President Sara Duterte calls for the timely issuance and strict handling of travel documents after last-minute clearance disrupts her plans. (Manila Bulletin/file photo)
Vice President Sara Duterte calls for the timely issuance and strict handling of travel documents after last-minute clearance disrupts her plans. (Manila Bulletin/file photo)
The Office of the Vice President (OVP) on Thursday, April 23, confirmed changes to Vice President Sara Duterte’s travel plans after she raised concerns over the late issuance of a travel authority, prompting adjustments to her official schedule.
In an announcement addressed to the “Office of the President,” Duterte acknowledged receipt of the travel clearance but noted that its last-minute release created uncertainty about whether she would be permitted to depart as scheduled.
“Thank you for the last-minute issuance of the travel authority,” Duterte said. “I regret to inform you that the plans have since changed due to uncertainty over whether I will be permitted to depart,” she added.
Call for timely processing
The OVP said it would submit a new request for a travel authority, urging the Office of the President to ensure that documents are processed with sufficient lead time. “You will be receiving a new request soon,” she said.
Duterte emphasized the need for earlier issuance of clearances to allow proper travel preparations, instead of receiving approvals only hours before departure.
“Please ensure that the necessary documents are processed and issued promptly, allowing sufficient time for travel preparations rather than only a few hours before the intended departure,” she added.
Security and confidentiality concerns raised
Beyond timing issues, Duterte also underscored the importance of safeguarding sensitive documents, pointing to potential implications for security arrangements.
She called for stricter handling protocols to ensure confidentiality in official communications, noting that proper document management is critical to maintaining effective security measures.
“Additionally, ensuring the confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive documents would greatly contribute to maintaining effective security arrangements,” Duterte said.
Duterte ended her message with a brief note: “God save the Philippines.”
Malacañang on April 22 confirmed that Duterte had requested travel authority for overseas trips from April 23 to May 15.
Based on a document signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, Duterte has been granted travel authority to the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, Belgium, Germany, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
READ: 
https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/22/palace-vp-sara-set-to-travel-to-europe-south-korea

Related Tags

Sara Duterte travel authority Philippines Office of the Vice President Malacañang government coordination Philippines
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