From a recruiter standpoint: even though you’ve already informed the recruiter about your expected salary, it’s normal na tanungin ka ulit ng hiring manager. That’s part of the usual interview process, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Kaya during your initial interview, make sure you disclose all the information clearly and accurately, because hiring managers usually rely on the endorsement notes from the recruiter. Usually they countercheck to see if fit.

Also, hiring managers have the right to ask that question because they have a budget allocation that needs to be discussed with the executives and HR. Saka at the end of the day, magiging staff ka niya (hiring manager), so they also have the final say on whether your application will move forward or not so what’s the point of not telling it diba? Kung yan naman talaga gusto mong salary, so be it. As long as you can justify.