Senator Robin Padilla has spoken out about why he and other public officials often decline gifts from fellow Filipinos, stressing adherence to the government’s “No Gift Policy.”
The senator’s clarification came after the policy, initially implemented by then-Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, resurfaced in public discussions. Robredo earlier emphasized that the rule covers all offices in Naga City to prevent conflicts of interest and corruption.
Padilla shared on his Facebook page that Vice President Sara Duterte also enforces a similar practice.
“Ganito rin si VP Inday Sara Duterte. Paulit-ulit na sinasabi ng staff niya sa lahat ng aming pinupuntahan sa abroad. No gift policy,” he said.
The actor-turned-lawmaker appealed to the public for understanding, saying he means no offense when turning down tokens or offers of free meals.
“Ganu’n din po sa mga nais manglibre sa restaurant, hindi po ako isnub, natural lang po na hindi ako pumayag kapag sinasabi na ilibre kita,” he explained.
Padilla ended his post with humor, acknowledging that some Filipinos are quick to offer generosity abroad:
“Maraming salamat po, wala na akong magagawa kung kasingbilis niyo si FPJ bumunot,” he quipped.
