BY DAVE SUAN ALBARADO
Prominent lawyer and social activist Atty. Makdo Castañares has brought to light allegations of unexplained wealth against Congresswoman Alexie Besas Tutor of the 3rd District of Bohol.
In an open letter addressed to the lawmaker, Atty. Castañares raised critical questions regarding her sources of income and acquisition of high-value assets, including luxury vehicles, beach resorts, real estate properties, and multiple business ventures.
Atty. Castañares expressed shock that Tutor acquired these assets in so short a time since she became congresswoman six years ago.
The controversy stems from Congresswoman Tutor’s reported possession of high-end cars, luxury beach resorts, and grand mansions despite earning a legislator’s salary under Salary Grade 31, which ranges from P278,434.00 to P318,806.00 per month.
Her husband, former Candijay Mayor Toper Tutor, is reported to have held a Salary Grade 27 position for nine years, with an estimated downgrade to Salary Grade 25 in recent years.
Tutor’s Wealth
In his letter, Atty. Castañares detailed a series of pressing concerns, demanding an explanation for the following:
Her decision to sign the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, which he alleged was politically motivated.
The sources of her wealth, given her government salary, that allowed her to purchase multiple luxury vehicles such as a Porsche Cayenne, Land Rover Defender, and Ford Raptor.
The extensive real estate properties under her name, including numerous beach resorts and high-end residential properties in Bohol.
The lack of economic progress in her district despite her years in public service, particularly the absence of major job-creating projects such as the establishment of a special economic zone.
Atty. Castañares bared the financial struggles of ordinary Boholanos, many of whom work overseas as domestic helpers, seafarers, and land-based professionals to earn a living.
He pointed out that even with high salaries abroad, it remains difficult for them to amass such wealth, questioning how Congresswoman Tutor, with her legislator’s income, was able to afford such extravagant purchases.
Indifference and Corruption
The lawyer further accused Congresswoman Tutor of being indifferent to the plight of her constituents, alleging that her policies favor tourism over agriculture.
He stated that many farmers in Bohol have suffered due to water shortages caused by the diversion of natural resources to sustain her resorts and tourism-related businesses.
He also questioned Tutor’s preference for infrastructure projects, speculating that her involvement might be financially motivated.
“Why do you always prioritize infrastructure projects? Is it because of the large percentages you receive from these deals?” Castañares inquired in his letter.
Transparency and Accountability
Atty. Castañares challenged Congresswoman Tutor to prove her integrity by signing a waiver on the Bank Secrecy Law and agreeing to a full lifestyle check.
He insisted that as a public official, she is accountable to the people and must be transparent about her wealth accumulation.
“You are not a private citizen who can choose to remain silent. You are an elected official who must answer to the people who put you in office,” Castañares stated.
Political Backlash and Public Outcry
The accusations have sparked debate among Boholanos, with many demanding answers.
Supporters of Congresswoman Tutor, however, have dismissed the allegations as politically motivated attacks.
Meanwhile, opposition voices, including grassroots organizations and concerned citizens, are urging a formal investigation into the matter.
Social media has been flooded with discussions about the allegations.
As of press time, Congresswoman Tutor has not officially responded to Atty. Castañares’ letters openly posted on his Facebook page, and no formal legal proceedings have been initiated against her.
However, calls for an independent probe into her wealth continue to grow as the people of Bohol seek clarity and accountability from their elected representative.
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