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Advocates Philippines
VP Sara Duterte's Europe Trip Hits Snag After Last-Minute Approval Drama
Photo credit: Senate PH
Vice President Sara Duterte was supposed to be packing for a multi-country trip across Europe and Asia—but plans suddenly took a turn.
Malacañang Palace confirmed that the Office of the President had already granted her travel authority for a scheduled trip from April 23 to May 15, 2026. The itinerary included stops in the Netherlands, Republic of Korea, Belgium, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
But just as quickly as the approval came, Duterte signaled a change of plans.
In a message addressed to the Office of the President, she acknowledged receiving the travel authority at the last minute—but said the trip would no longer push through as planned. She cited uncertainty over whether she would actually be allowed to leave the country.
Duterte also hinted at frustration over the timing of the approval, urging officials to process future requests earlier to give enough time for preparations—not just a few hours before departure.
She further stressed the importance of keeping sensitive travel documents confidential, saying proper handling is crucial for security arrangements.
The Vice President ended her message with a brief but pointed line: “God save the Philippines.”
A new travel request is expected to be submitted soon, as questions linger over what caused the uncertainty surrounding her departure.
Malacañang Palace confirmed that the Office of the President had already granted her travel authority for a scheduled trip from April 23 to May 15, 2026. The itinerary included stops in the Netherlands, Republic of Korea, Belgium, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
But just as quickly as the approval came, Duterte signaled a change of plans.
In a message addressed to the Office of the President, she acknowledged receiving the travel authority at the last minute—but said the trip would no longer push through as planned. She cited uncertainty over whether she would actually be allowed to leave the country.
Duterte also hinted at frustration over the timing of the approval, urging officials to process future requests earlier to give enough time for preparations—not just a few hours before departure.
She further stressed the importance of keeping sensitive travel documents confidential, saying proper handling is crucial for security arrangements.
The Vice President ended her message with a brief but pointed line: “God save the Philippines.”
A new travel request is expected to be submitted soon, as questions linger over what caused the uncertainty surrounding her departure.
Apr 23, 2026
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