There is need for a categorical statement from the Marcos heirs confirming President Duterte’s report that the Marcoses are willing to surrender a part of the Marcos’ ill-gotten hoard.

The confirmatory statement must include the following:

1. The specification of the denominations of the amounts and identification of the items to be returned;

2. The persons or parties in possession of the hidden wealth to be conveyed to the government;

3. The respective locations of the amounts and items to be surrendered;

4. Estimated amount of what is earmarked to be returned;

5. Time frame for the turnover;

6. The duly authorized representative of the Marcos family; and

7. Any conditionality for the voluntary partial surrender.

EDCEL C. LAGMAN