Duterte to ask tourism chief to explain overseas trips with make-up artist, clerks

February 15, 2018

President Rodrigo Duterte will sk Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo to explain report that she brought with her in her foreign trips her make-up artist and office clerks, Malacanang said on Thursday.

The Philippine Star reported that in her 2016 and 2017 trips to Dubai, Italy, United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, United States and Canada, Teo was accompanied by her make-up artist, utility workers, and messenger, among others.

"Well, it's been published, I'm sure the president will ask. It's his nature always to ask," Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said.

He also said the Commission on Audit has established guidelines on the number of personnel who could accompany an official in overseas trips.

While Duterte earlier issued an order for government officials not to travel abroad as they could face dismissal, Roque said if the trip is related to the function, then it is allowed.

"So, we can understand why the secretary of tourism has lots of trips abroad because she has to sell the Philippines as a destination," he said.

However, as to Teo's travel companions, it is part of COA's duty to come up with a report on the matter.

Duterte has fired several high-ranking government officials for their frequent trips abroad. Celerina Monte/DMS