Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. holds a Maltese passport, making him a dual citizen, raising serious legal and national security concerns under Philippine law.
Documents show he acquired Maltese citizenship in 2016, possibly through Malta’s controversial “golden passport” scheme, which the European Court of Justice recently declared illegal.
Legal experts warn that his Cabinet appointment may be unconstitutional and subject to legal challenge if Teodoro formally renounced his foreign citizenship as required by Republic Act 9225 and the Supreme Court’s Arnado ruling.
The issue also carries serious national security implications, as the defense chief has access to sensitive intelligence and strategic matters.
Critics demand transparency and call on authorities to investigate whether Teodoro complied with laws requiring exclusive allegiance to the Philippines.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 14, 2025
