LEGAZPI CITY—Vice President Sara Duterte firmly declared “no misuse of funds” during a House inquiry into her office’s budget utilization. The hearing, overseen by the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, focused on the financial management of the Office of the Vice President (OVP), particularly in relation to its budget for socioeconomic programs.
According to Philippines News Agency, Duterte stated her confidence in the OVP’s handling of funds, responding to questions about potential misappropriations. “There is no misuse of funds. If there are audit findings, we shall gladly respond to them before the Commission on Audit. And if there are legitimate cases to be filed, then we shall gladly respond to them before the appropriate courts,” she expressed.
The Vice President also highlighted her decision not to advocate for the OVP’s 2025 budget, leaving it to the discretion of the House leadership. She emphasized her stance of non-interference and respect for the legislative process by stating, “I am not asking for any special treatment, nor am I asking you to uphold any tradition. There is no disrespect. All I am saying is that you have the complete freedom to do whatever you wish to the OVP budget.”
Controversy arose at the start of the hearing when Duterte refused to take the oath typically administered to testify truthfully, citing procedural rules that differentiate the roles of witnesses and resource persons. This move drew commentary from former president and current Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who supported Duterte’s position by referencing legal precedents that offer greater protections to resource persons.
The inquiry also saw critical remarks from Manila 2nd District Rep. Rolando Valeriano, who questioned the lack of documentation and evidence supporting the OVP’s reported achievements in socioeconomic programs, which purportedly benefited over two million individuals in the National Capital Region. Committee chair and Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua emphasized the essential oversight role of Congress, stating, “We have to ensure that funds are spent solely for purposes for which they have been appropriated.”
Despite a request from Duterte to conclude the hearing, Chairperson Chua maintained that proceedings would continue, given the unresolved concerns highlighted in recent discussions about the OVP’s budget management. Duterte departed the hearing shortly after her statement, leaving ongoing debates about the transparency and accountability of her office’s financial practices.