VP Sara Duterte denies owning Jollibee franchises amid questions over GenCorp investment
MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte has denied directly owning Jollibee franchises following reports linking her business investment in GenCorp Industries Inc. (GenCorp) to several branches of the fast-food chain in Davao City.
“I do not own a Jollibee franchise or any other franchise,” Duterte said.
The issue emerged during the ongoing Senate impeachment trial in October 2026, where Duterte’s declared business interests and financial transactions have come under scrutiny.
According to reports presented during the proceedings, Duterte listed her interest as a stockholder of GenCorp in her Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN).
During his testimony on October 9, forensic financial analyst Atty. Alexander Cabrera linked GenCorp, formerly known as Great Jolly Times Food Corp. and Timesquare Bee Foods Corp., to the registration and operation of Jollibee franchises.
Based on official receipts presented by the House prosecution panel, five Jollibee branches in Davao City were identified as being operated by GenCorp.
These establishments are Jollibee Centerpoint Plaza in Matina Crossing, Jollibee Davao Gaisano Mall, Jollibee Abreeza Mall, Jollibee Times Square Plaza Corner, and Jollibee Bolton Street in the Poblacion District.
However, Duterte maintained that she does not personally own any Jollibee franchise.
The distinction between direct franchise ownership and shareholding in a corporation operating franchise businesses remains central to the issue.
While the prosecution’s evidence reportedly linked GenCorp to the five establishments, Duterte’s statement specifically denied her personal ownership of the franchises.
The matter forms part of the broader examination of the Vice President’s declared assets and business interests in the impeachment proceedings.
The prosecution’s claims remain subject to evaluation by the Senate impeachment court, while Duterte and her defense retain the opportunity to contest the evidence presented.
