By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Following the grave threats publicly aired by Vice President Sara Duterte over the weekend, the House of Representatives on Monday (25 November 2024) unanimously adopted a resolution expressing support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
Sponsored by Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr., along with Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe, House Resolution (HR) No. 2092 is entitled, “Expressing the unwavering and unqualified support and solidarity of the House of Representatives to the leadership of His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., and the Honorable Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez in the face of serious and dangerous remarks and defiant acts that threaten the very foundation of democratic governance, rule of law, and public trust and integrity of government institutions.”
Other authors of the resolution include House Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan, and Reps. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez and Jude Acidre of Tingog Partylist.
In support of the resolution, the following lawmakers from various political parties expressed their individual manifestations: Deputy Speaker David “Jay-jay” Suarez of Quezon from Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD); Rep. Albert S. Garcia (2nd District, Bataan) from the National Unity Party (NUP); Rep. Mark Enverga (1st District, Quezon) from the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC); Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (2nd District, Surigao del Norte) from the Nacionalista Party (NP); Rep. Rosanna Ria Vergara (3rd District, Nueva Ecija) from Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP); Rep. Erwin Tulfo of ACT-CIS from the Party-List Coalition Foundation (PCFI); Deputy Majority Leader Rep. Jam Baronda (Lone District, Iloilo City) from Lakas-CMD; Rep. Toby Tiangco (Lone District, Navotas City) from Partido Navoteño; and Rep. Gabriel Bordado (3rd District, Camarines Sur) from the Liberal Party (LP).
“The importance of this resolution cannot be overstated. As members of this honorable and highly esteemed institution, it is our responsibility to uphold the dignity, honor and integrity of the House of Representatives,” Gonzales said.
“In doing so, we must also express our collective solidarity with our leaders who stand at the forefront of defending our democratic institutions and the rule of law,” he said.
Dalipe delivered a separate sponsorship speech, in which he, like Gonzales, referred to threats made on President Marcos, the First Lady and Speaker Romualdez, and other threatening and explosive statements.
The two leaders did not refer to Vice President Sara Duterte by name as the one who made those utterances over the weekend.
Gonzales said President Marcos Jr.’s leadership “continues to guide our nation toward progress and stability.”
“His vision for a strong and united Philippines is evident in his administration’s achievements. It is our duty as legislators to rally behind our President in defending the interests of the Filipino people and safeguarding the future of our democratic institutions,” he added.
In his sponsorship remarks, Gonzales referred to “recent events” that “have brought to light conduct and statements that not only threaten the dignity of this chamber but also compromise national security and public trust in government.”
“These include actions that defy protocols, undermine accountability, and most alarmingly, threats to the very lives of our leaders – His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the First Lady, Mrs. Liza Araneta Marcos, and our beloved Speaker, Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez,” he said, without naming Vice President Sara Duterte as the one who made the statements over the weekend.
He said as for Speaker Romualdez, the House leader “has displayed exemplary leadership and unwavering resolve in defending this institution against those who seek to weaken it.”
“His swift and decisive response to these serious threats is a testament to his commitment to upholding the principles of democratic governance and the rule of law,” he said.
He added that under the leadership of Speaker Romualdez, the House “has demonstrated unity, dynamism, and effectiveness in performing its mandate.”
“We have passed crucial legislations that support the priorities of the administration and address the needs of our constituents. These successes show that, with a stalwart like Speaker Romualdez, this institution can withstand any obstacle and remain a pillar of democracy,” Gonzales stressed.
For his part, Dalipe said the House of Representatives “stands as a cornerstone of this nation’s democracy.”
“As we carry out our mandate and stand to uphold the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, we operate on established rules and procedures to ensure transparency, accountability, and order within our walls – and beyond,” he said.
He said over the past few days, the nation “witnessed the blatant disregard for these rules and protocols by no less than the second highest official of the land.”
“I take this opportunity to reiterate that this august chamber must be accorded the honor and dignity befitting its status as the House of the People. To disrespect this chamber is to disrespect the people that we represent. No public official, regardless of rank or position, should consider itself above and beyond the 100-million strong Filipino people by obstructing the lawful proceedings and orders of the House,” he added.
Dalipe pointed out that the “wanton breach of protocol, the use of vindictive language, and the threat of harm aimed at the leaders of this country show a deep and encompassing disrespect for the rule of law and the democratic institutions that we have sworn to protect.”
“I believe that we can do better. We must remember that our actions set the tone of public governance in the country. I applaud President Marcos and Speaker Romualdez for their patience, restraint, and ability to rise above the fray by blocking out the external noise and focusing on the work that needs to be done. I urge all of us to follow their example,” he stressed.
He urged his colleagues to “continue to do our work, no matter the obstacles put in our path, and remember that it is in our collective strength that we have achieved all our legislative goals, and more.”
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday (25 Nov 2024) said that he would uphold the rule of law after the tirades of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio made against him, the First Lady Liza Marcos and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
“‘Yang ganyang pagtatangka (sa buhay) ay hindi dapat pinapalampas. ‘Yan ay aking papalagan. As a democratic country, we need to uphold the rule of law,” Marcos said, referring to the video Duterte-Carpio made wherein she spit out expletives against the President, the First Lady and Romualdez and also boasted that she hired somebody to also kill them all in the event that she gets killed.
The Chief Executive said that he won’t compromise the rule of law which should be applied to everyone.
He also promised not to let “dirty politicking” drag the country down.
“Igalang natin ang proseso. Tuparin natin ang batas. Alalahanin natin ang mandato na pinagkatiwala sa atin ng milyon-milyong Pilipino,” the President said in what could be his very first “counter-attack” against his former Uniteam runningmate in the 2022 elections.
Duterte embarked on a fighting mode ever since Congress focused its attention on her unexplained confidential funds amounting around P700 million.
“Magtrabaho po tayo sa ikauunlad ng Republika ng Pilipinas at para matamo ang Bagong Pilipinas.”
Meanwhile, Marcos reminded government officials of their duty to protect the country and the Constitution.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio said that the order to transfer her chief-of-staff Atty. Zuleika Lopez to the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) was an attempted homocide.
Duterte-Carpio made the statement after the House Committee on Good Governance and Public Accountability ordered the transfer of Lopez from House of Representatives to the CIW.
“Naniniwala ako na it was attempted homicide because she feared for her life. ‘Pag nakakita siya ng uniform ng police, natataranta siya,” she said.
“Imaginine mo ba naman nine ang biglang papasok sa kuwarto mo,” the Vice President added.
Duterte-Carpio said she does not understand why they are doing such things to Lopez despite hr full cooperation.
“Wala naman tayong problema eh…Nandoon naka-detaine ‘yung tao, mag-aattend ng hearing nagbibisita kami…I don’t understand, why do you have to antagonize a detainee who is fully cooperating sa lahat,” she said.
Lopez was ordered to be detained after being cited in contempt by the lower chamber during the hearing on the confidential funds of Department of Education and Office of the Vice President.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte is again at the center of controversy for allegedly blocking the lawful transfer of her former chief-of-staff, Zuleika Lopez, to the Women’s Correctional Facility in Mandaluyong City, in what the House Sergeant-At-Arms can only label as “alarming acts of defiance.”
Manila Rep. Joel Chua, chair of the House Blue Ribbon Committee, and House Sergeant-At-Arms Napoleon Taas held an early morning media briefing Saturday (23 November 2024) where the latter said Vice President Duterte disrupted the authority and operations of the House of Representatives again with her actions Friday (22 Nov 2024) night.
“The House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, chaired by Rep. Joel R. Chua, has resolved to transfer Atty. Zuleika T. Lopez, Undersecretary and Chief of Staff of the Office of the Vice President, to the Women’s Correctional Facility in Mandaluyong City,” Taas said.
“However, the execution of this lawful order was directly obstructed by Vice President Sara Duterte, who took the extraordinary step of introducing herself as Atty. Lopez’s legal counsel and physically intervening to prevent the service of the transfer order,” he added.
He noted that the Vice President’s intervention derailed the House’s protocols and demonstrated blatant disregard for institutional authority and due process.
The House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability had previously resolved to transfer Lopez following established rules and due process.
However, Vice President Duterte’s actions, described as “acts of defiance,” included assuming the role of legal counsel for Lopez, issuing direct orders to House personnel and disregarding protocols governing House operations.
In explaining the transfer order, Chua said that the committee received two unusual letters related to Lopez.
“Nakatanggap po kasi kami ng dalawang sulat. Yung isang sulat po ay galing po kay Cong. Pulong Duterte kung saan iniinform po niya ang Committee na ang vice president daw ay pinapayagan niya na mag-stay sa kanyang opisina,” Chua stated.
The second letter, written by Vice President Duterte herself, contained a request to allow her to jog within the House premises.
“At yung pangalawang sulat, nakatanggap po kami ng sulat mula sa Vice President na payagan siya na mag-jogging sa vicinity ng House of Representatives,” Chua disclosed.
The letters, coupled with social media posts about the issue, alarmed committee members, prompting a special Zoom meeting to address security concerns.
“Na-alarm po ang ibang mga miyembro kasi may nagpo-post na po sa Facebook tungkol po dito sa mga sulat,” Chua shared.
The discussions centered on the risks posed by Lopez’s continued presence in the House.
“Isa po sa napag-usapan ay yung mga security risk, hindi lang po ng ating House of Representatives pati na rin po ng ating vice president,” Chua explained.
He added that members agreed on the need to transfer Lopez to a facility with better security capabilities.
“Kaya napagdesisyunan ng mga miyembro na i-transfer sa pasilidad na mas may kapasidad, may kakayahan na maisecure,” he said.
Taas said the Vice President’s intervention escalated when she physically prevented the transfer of Lopez.
“This act of interference demonstrates a blatant disregard for institutional authority and due process, setting a dangerous precedent for abuse of power. The Vice President’s intervention came during her visit to the House detention facility, which had been initially permitted under specific guidelines,” Taas said.
“Instead of adhering to these parameters, Duterte escalated the situation by overstaying her visit and ignoring repeated directives from the Sergeant-at-Arms to leave the premises. She then locked herself inside the office of Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte, prompting a lockdown of the entire House premises.”
According to Taas, here are the specific actions taken by the Vice President to block the order include:
1. Assuming the role of legal counsel for Atty. Lopez to impede the Committee’s directive;
2. Physically preventing House security personnel from executing the transfer order;
3. Disrupting House operations and disregarding established rules governing visits to detainees; and
4. Compromising security protocols by bringing an excessive and unauthorized armed presence into the complex.
He said the vice president’s actions caused significant disruptions, including excessive resource strain, reallocation of security personnel and compromised safety within the House premises.
“These alarming acts of defiance by Vice President Duterte severely undermined the authority of the House and disrupted its operations,” Taas stated in his report.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio visited her Chief-of-Staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez, at the House of Representatives following the latter’s detention after being cited in contempt during the Quad Comm hearing on Wednesday (21 Nov 2024).
Duterte-Carpio arrived on Thursday night and visited Lopez. She then stayed overnight in the office of her brother, Congressman Pulong Duterte, until Friday morning.
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco confirmed this visit.
“We allowed her to visit Atty. Lopez doon sa visitor center,” Velasco said.
“When the visiting hours were over, the VP decided to go to Congressman Pulong Duterte’s office. She has stayed there since,” he added.
On November 21, Duterte sent a letter to Rep. Joel Chua, chairperson of the House Committee on Good Governance and Public Accountability, requesting to accompany Lopez. However, Chua permitted only a visit, as the facility is designated for detainees.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Will Vice President Sara Duterte remain at the House of Representatives until next Monday, when her chief of staff is set for release, and coinciding with the resumption of the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability’s hearing?
The House panel is investigating, in aid of legislation, the alleged misuse of PHP612.5 million in confidential and intelligence funds allocated to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) under VP Sara’s leadership.
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco, when asked, could not provide a definite answer. He shared with reporters on Friday (November 22, 2024) that VP Sara visited her detained chief of staff, Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez, then spent the night in her brother’s office, Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte.
“The VP arrived around 7:40 p.m. and we allowed her to visit Atty. Lopez at the visitor’s center, where they stayed until around 10:00 p.m. When visiting hours ended, the VP decided to go to Congressman Pulong Duterte’s office,” Velasco disclosed.
“She’s still there in Cong. Duterte’s office,” he added. “Our security is in contact with the VP’s security team to know her plans.”
Velasco noted there is no work at the House on Friday, as employees work from Monday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
“Congress isn’t in session. There’s no work in Congress on Fridays, although there are skeletal staff on overtime. Most offices are closed,” the House Secretary General added.
He also revealed that House security has alerted the Quezon City Police to be prepared in case of any disturbances outside the House premises.
The House panel cited Lopez for contempt, alleging undue interference in the panel’s hearings. She was detained following her letter to the Commission on Audit (COA), asking the agency to refrain from providing the House with audit observations on the OVP’s confidential funds.
Lopez will remain detained at the House for five days or until the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability’s next hearing on Monday, November 25, 2024.
Duterte’s chief of staff was cited in contempt by the Quad Comm last Wednesday due to her “undue interference” during the committee hearing.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte is accused of orchestrating a “cover-up” by preventing key associates—allegedly involved in the misuse of P500 million in confidential funds (CIF) for the Office of the Vice President (OVP)—from attending a House inquiry.
Manila Third District Rep. Joel Chua, chair of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, expressed frustration over the absence of those directly responsible for handling the funds under scrutiny.
“Ang nakikita po namin dito, pinapapunta po nila ‘yung mga career officials na sa tingin po namin ay hindi naman po sila ang talagang concerned. Parang nagkakaroon po ng cover-up dito sa issue na ito,” Chua said in response to a reporter’s question during a press conference.
During the committee’s fifth hearing on Monday, OVP career officials—including Administrative and Financial Services Director Rosalynne Sanchez, Chief Accountant Julieta Villadelrey, Budget Division Chief Edelyn Rabago, and Chief Administrative Officer Kelvin Gerome Tenido—testified after multiple invitations and a subpoena.
However, Duterte’s close associates, such as OVP Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Zuleika Lopez and Special Disbursing Officer Gina Acosta, were absent. Both Lopez and Acosta had served as Duterte’s staff during her tenure as Davao City mayor.
The OVP career officials testified that they had no personal knowledge or involvement with the CIFs, instead pointing to Lopez and Acosta as those primarily responsible, as both are part of Duterte’s inner circle.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales 1st District Rep. Jay Khonghun criticized Duterte’s actions, which he said showed “selective participation” designed to shield her inner circle from scrutiny.
“Actually, si VP Sara is shielding her inner circle from accountability. May selective participation, kung sino lang ‘yung gusto nilang ipadala at walang direktang kinalaman ‘dun sa liquidation ng funds, ‘yun ‘yung pinapadala niya,” Khonghun remarked, echoing Chua’s concern that sending officials without direct involvement gave the impression of a cover-up.
Responding to Duterte’s claim that certain officials were too busy preparing for the OVP’s anniversary to attend, Chua pointed out that the committee had sent multiple invitations, all of which had been ignored.
“Hindi naman po ito ‘yung first time na sila ay maimbitahan; this is actually the fifth committee hearing. Talaga namang ‘yung mga directly involved dito sa isyung ito, sa confidential funds, ay hindi nila pinapupunta,” he said, citing testimony that only Acosta, Lopez, and Duterte herself were privy to the details of the CIFs.
The committee is seeking explanations from OVP officials on the alleged misuse of P500 million in CIFs for the last quarter of 2022 and the first three quarters of 2023.
The Commission on Audit (COA) flagged nearly half of the total amount, disallowing P73 million of the P125 million spent by the OVP in just 11 days during the last quarter of 2022. It also issued Audit Observation Memorandums for P375 million spent in the first three quarters of 2023, citing alleged irregularities.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – On Monday (November 11, 2024), the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) chief lawyer, Emily Torrentira, unexpectedly appeared at a House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability hearing, despite not being formally invited.
Torrentira, head of the OVP’s Legal Affairs Department, refused to take an oath to “tell the whole truth” before the panel investigating alleged misuse of confidential funds, leading to her dismissal by committee chair Manila Rep. Joel Chua.
Last September 18, Vice President Sara Duterte also refused to take an oath and answer questions regarding the alleged misuse of P625 million in confidential funds received by the OVP and the Department of Education (DepEd) in 2022 and 2023, during her tenure as education secretary.
Torrentira is not one of the seven OVP officers summoned by the committee to explain adverse audit findings on the utilization of the P625-million confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) allotted to the OVP and DepEd.
The Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged millions of pesos in confidential fund disbursements, including P73 million that it has disallowed, calling on the Vice President and two other officials to return the amount to government funds.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Amid Vice President Sara Duterte’s declining trust and approval ratings, two prominent leaders from the House of Representatives’ “Young Guns” are raising serious concerns about her accountability, describing the situation as a growing issue in public perception.
House Assistant Majority Leaders Jay Khonghun of Zambales and Paolo Ortega of La Union said Filipinos are seeking clear answers regarding the controversies surrounding Duterte’s questionable use of confidential funds, both in her current role and during her tenure as Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd).
“Vice President Duterte’s dropping trust ratings signal a critical problem in how people perceive her,” Khonghun stated. “When a public official faces unexplained controversies, it becomes difficult for people to trust them. If these issues aren’t addressed, it could seriously damage her credibility in the long term.”
Recent data from the OCTA Research survey reflects a six-point decline in Duterte’s trust rating, now at 59%, and an eight-point drop in her performance rating, which has fallen to 52% from a previous high of 87% last year.
Khonghun highlighted pressing issues that require immediate explanation, including an alleged P15 million in confidential funds purportedly allocated for a youth leadership summit—funds that the military later denied receiving—as well as a P16 million expense for renting safe houses in late 2022.
“If these controversies aren’t clarified, how can she expect people to trust her in the future? Trust is earned through transparency and accountability, qualities essential for every public servant,” Khonghun said.
Echoing Khonghun’s sentiments, Ortega noted that Duterte’s steep drop in ratings illustrates how public trust can erode when accountability is ignored.
“From a high of 87% in March 2023 to 59% today, that’s a significant decline,” Ortega pointed out. “People want leaders they can trust. To maintain public confidence, leaders must be open and transparent.”
Ortega also stressed that ignoring these controversies could undermine Duterte’s credibility if she intends to remain in public service. “Silence is not an option, especially when the public is closely watching,” he added.
Both lawmakers emphasized that disregarding public concerns risks setting a low standard for government accountability.
“The duty to address issues that could undermine public trust should be a priority. If VP Duterte continues to avoid these controversies, it sets a troubling example for accountability in government,” Khonghun remarked.
“A true leader does not hide behind controversy. She should demonstrate to the public that she has nothing to hide and is willing to address these issues openly,” Ortega stated.
During a recent hearing by the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, retired Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao, Lt. Col. Carlos Sangdaan Jr., and Colonels Manaros Boransing and Magtangol Panopio denied receiving a P15 million payment from confidential funds allegedly allocated to pay informants.
These military officials issued certifications for Youth Leadership Summits (YLS), a regular anti-insurgency program led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in 2023. However, DepEd reportedly used these certifications to justify a P15 million expense for informant rewards instead.
Lawmakers expressed shock at the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) use of P16 million in confidential funds to rent 34 safe houses for just 11 days in the last quarter of 2022. Some safe houses cost nearly P91,000 per day—higher than rates at high-end resorts like Shangri-La Boracay.
Rep. Joel Chua of Manila’s 3rd District, who chairs the committee, questioned whether these safe houses were indeed luxurious properties, noting that similar rentals in Bonifacio Global City typically cost around P90,000 per month, significantly lower than the daily rate of P91,000 paid by the OVP.
Khonghun and Ortega concluded by emphasizing the importance of transparency, stating that as public servants, leaders owe it to the people to be open and accountable, especially when public funds are involved.
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MANILA, Philippines — Though with a slight decline, majority of Filipinos continue to trust and approve of President Marcos’ performance, while Vice President Sara Duterte’s ratings have seen a further drop, according to a third-quarter OCTA Research survey.
President Marcos’ Ratings Hold Steady
The survey, conducted from Sept. 4 to 7, revealed that 66% of 1,200 respondents are satisfied with Marcos’ performance, down slightly from 68% in July. Trust in Marcos also dipped marginally from 71% to 69%, while dissatisfaction rose from 10% to 12%. OCTA noted that the changes in Marcos’ ratings remain within the survey’s margin of error.
Duterte’s Approval and Trust Ratings Drop
In contrast, Duterte’s ratings saw a sharper decline. Her performance approval fell eight points to 52%, with dissatisfaction rising from 12% to 15%. Trust in her decreased by six points to 59%, with notable drops in Metro Manila and Luzon, especially among socio-economic classes ABC and D. Her approval in Metro Manila dropped from 50% to 38%, and trust declined by 13 points to 47%.
The Vice President continues to hold strong support in Mindanao, where her ratings remain above 90%.
Possible Factors in Duterte’s Decline
The survey highlights a continuing decline in Duterte’s ratings, following her public split from the Marcos administration, including her resignation as education secretary in June and recent public criticisms of the President. Duterte is also currently under investigation by the House committee on good government for her office’s use of confidential funds.
Escudero’s Ratings Remain High
Senate President Francis Escudero maintained high trust and approval ratings, scoring 67% and 65%, respectively, in the same survey. He expressed gratitude to the public, stating that he is committed to serving the people.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Alarmed by Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent statements, leaders of the so-called “Young Guns” in the House of Representatives have raised concerns about her mental health, suggesting a psychological evaluation may be necessary.
The Young Guns believe such an assessment is crucial after VP Duterte’s press conference, where she mentioned imagining cutting off President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s head and threatened to exhume his father’s remains and throw them into the West Philippine Sea.
“Walang matinong tao ang makakaisip, lalo’t gagawa, ng ganitong klaseng pahayag. Nakababahala ang antas ng kawalan ng katinuan sa kanyang mga salita,” remarked House Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales 1st District Rep. Jay Khonghun.
He added: “For someone in such a high position to make violent and grotesque threats, even in jest, shows a troubling level of instability. Kailangang magkaroon ng masusing psychological assessment upang matiyak kung siya ay karapat-dapat pang maglingkod sa bayan sa ganitong kritikal na posisyon.”
House Assistant Majority Leader and La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega V echoed these concerns, pointing out the potential risks of Duterte’s statements and the serious implications for the country.
“Ang ganitong uri ng marahas at nakakatakot na mga pahayag ay hindi katanggap-tanggap mula sa kahit sino, lalo na sa isang nakaupong Bise Presidente. Malinaw na may malalaking katanungan tungkol sa kanyang estado ng pag-iisip at emosyonal na kalagayan,” Ortega noted.
“We strongly urge the Office of the Vice President to consider seeking professional help for Vice President Duterte. This behavior is deeply concerning and could have significant consequences for our nation’s leadership,” Ortega emphasized.
Notably, VP Duterte’s press conference took place just a day after a House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability hearing revealed discrepancies regarding the Department of Education’s (DepEd) use of confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) during her tenure. DepEd had falsely claimed to have used CIFs for a youth program, but military officers testified that most expenses for the Youth Leadership Summits (YLS) in 2023 were covered by the military and local government units.
Despite these testimonies, under VP Duterte’s leadership, DepEd used military certifications related to the YLS to justify the allocation of ₱15 million in CIFs, which were supposedly intended for paying informants.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio on Friday (18 Oct 2024) said she has no regrets about running for the position, stating that if she were still a mayor, it would be “easy” for her opponents to remove her from office.
“I don’t regret running for Vice President, kasi imagine niyo, kung mayor ako tapos hinahabol nila ako ngayon, di ba? Napakadali nila ako i-suspend, napakadali nila ako kasuhan, napakadali nila ako tanggalin sa pwesto as mayor,” Duterte-Carpio said on Friday, October 18, 2024.
The Vice President also mentioned she has no regrets about teaming up with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. during the elections.
Duterte-Carpio ran alongside Marcos in the 2022 elections under UniTeam.
“Hindi ko din pinagsisihan na nakipagtandem ako sa kanya. I’m sure merong rason ang Diyos… para rin siguro sa kanya, para kay BBM, or para sa bayan,” she said.
She also revealed that she was approached by the Marcoses to help them win against then-presidential aspirant Leni Robredo.
Duterte-Carpio said she received a call from Senator Imee Marcos, asking her to run for Vice President as her brother’s running mate to secure the election victory.
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By Janvic Mateo
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte have experienced a dip in public approval and trust, according to a recent Pulse Asia survey conducted from September 6 to 13.
Marcos’ approval rating dropped to 50%, down three points from June’s 53%. Meanwhile, his trust rating slipped to 50% from 52%. Disapproval of his performance rose slightly from 19% to 21%.
Vice President Duterte’s approval rating saw a significant decline, dropping from 69% in June to 60%. Her trust rating also decreased by 10 points, from 71% to 61%. Disapproval of her performance increased from 9% to 17%.
Senate President Francis Escudero, in his first rating since taking office in May, earned a 60% approval rating but saw a 13-point drop in trust, from 69% to 56%.
The survey, which included 2,400 respondents, reported a margin of error of plus-minus two percent.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Dissapointed that Vice President Sara Duterte snubbed the plenary debates on the proposed P2-billion 2025 budget for the Office of the Vice President (OVP) only to learn that she was having a good time in a beach in Camarines Norte, members of the so-called Young Guns of the House of Representatives on Tuesday (24 Sept 2024) said the country’s second highest official may not be interested in her position and should better step down.
This developed even as lawmakers deny that the majority is hatching an impeachment move against VP Sara and said they will be waiting until Wednesday (25 September 2024) to hear her defend the OVP budget for next year.
“So if that’s the case, it shows that she’s not interested in her duties and functions as the vice president of the Philippines. So with that coming out, probably we can ask her to step down as the vice president,” Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Raul Angelo “Jil” Bongalon said in a press conference.
He noted that by apparently having a good time in the beach while lawmakers were having a hard time scrutinizing the budget of each government agency shows a lack of interest in her office.
“So I guess it’s the Filipino people, it’s up to them to judge the vice president… If she’s not interested with her duties and functions as the vice president, we can ask the vice president to step down,” Bongalon quipped.
Deputy Speaker David Suarez was asked if Bongalon’s suggestion was a sentiment shared by other lawmakers.
“Well that’s clear sentiments being shared by a lot of members. I mean, you know, this work, a responsibility. We are all elected. We are the one entrusted to serve. We have duties to fulfill. This is part of our work. This is part of our responsibility,” Suarez said.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio stated on Wednesday (Sept. 18, 2024) that she is not personally friends with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Duterte-Carpio, who was Marcos’ running mate in the 2022 elections under the UniTeam banner, clarified their relationship.
“We’ve never really talked much. We’re not friends,” Duterte-Carpio said, referring to the President.
“We only got to know each other because we became running mates. Even before that, we weren’t in communication. We only talked during the campaign and because of work,” she added.
The Vice President did mention, however, that she shares a close relationship with Marcos’ sister, Senator Imee Marcos.
“My real friend is Senator Imee Marcos. She’s known me since 2012,” Duterte-Carpio said.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Refusing to take oath before the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday (18 Sept 2024) accused lawmakers of plotting to impeach her using the budget hearing as a sort of smokescreen.
VP Duterte was accused at the hearing of a privilege speech by Manila Second District Representative Rolando Valeriano.
“Witnesses lang po ang ino-oath. Sabi ninyo sa amin ngayon, resource persons kami (You only administer an oath to witnesses. We are just resource persons),” the Vice President said.
Committee chair Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua retorted that “everyone is considered a resource person and witness.”
Former president and Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo contended that the committee cannot trivialize the difference between a resource person and a witness.
“They’re not the same; the Supreme Court says they are not the same. Somebody who appears to be the accused has a different tier of protection from a witness, and, can refuse to take the witness stand,” Arroyo said.
The committee convened to discuss Valeriano’s privilege speech last September 3, where he asked OVP to show proof that the financial beneficiaries of their programs were true.
“Ang pagtanggi ni Vice President Sara Duterte na sagutin ang mga tanong tungkol sa kanyang panukalang budget at ang kwestyonable niyang paggastos sa mga nagdaang OVP budgets na sinita ng Commission on Audit (COA) ang mga dahilan kung bakit tayo narito ngayon,” Valeriano said.
“She expressly rejected any question about the OVP budget even before those questions were put forward,” he recalled.
But VP Sara, who asked to leave early, maintained that the lawmakers are planning to oust her through impeachment.
“Sa totoo lang, hindi naman ang budget ang punterya ninyo, dahil napakadali naman magtanggal ng budget. What you are trying to do is make a case for impeachment,” VP Duterte said.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio stated that the Office of the Vice President (OVP) is prepared to function even without funding for 2025.
“We’ve heard about the possibility of defunding. There are talks that only one peso might be allocated for the OVP budget. We are ready. I am ready, and the Office of the Vice President is prepared to work even without a budget,” Duterte-Carpio said in a video released by the OVP.
“Our operations are small, so we can manage to continue working even without funding. We understand that this is part of the ongoing political attacks, but we will keep doing what we need to do for the country,” she added.
The Vice President was notably absent from the recent 2025 budget hearing in the House of Representatives, following tense discussions during the initial hearing.
“We defer entirely to the discretion and judgment of the committee regarding our proposed budget for the coming year,” she previously remarked.
Duterte-Carpio also pointed out that political attacks on the Vice President are not uncommon.
“If we look at history, the Vice President is often targeted because people view them as a potential future president,” she explained.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Amid swirling impeachment rumors in the House of Representatives, House Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe said Tuesday (September 10, 2024) that Vice President Sara Duterte could be held liable for graft if she fails to justify ₱73.2 million in intelligence expenses disallowed by the Commission on Audit (COA), as well as ₱12.3 billion in “disallowances and suspensions” related to the Department of Education (DepEd) in 2023.
Dalipe urged COA to finalize its report on the questionable disbursements, along with its recommendations.
“More than just allegations of mismanagement, she may be held liable for graft and possible violations of anti-graft laws if she cannot adequately explain and justify the adverse findings. If COA does not accept her explanations, this could escalate,” Dalipe said.
He pointed out that COA has been pressing VP Duterte to return the ₱73.2 million disallowed from her office’s ₱125 million intelligence fund, which was reportedly used up in just 11 days—averaging ₱11.36 million per day.
Additionally, Dalipe noted that COA is requiring Duterte, in her capacity as former DepEd secretary, and other DepEd officials to repay ₱12.3 billion in expenses flagged for doubtful legality and validity.
Duterte served as DepEd secretary from the start of the Marcos administration until her resignation on July 19.
In its audit of the Office of the Vice President’s ₱125-million intelligence fund, COA flagged several irregularities, including late submission of liquidation reports, discrepancies in notarization dates, and failure to submit required accomplishment reports to relevant offices promptly.
Dalipe highlighted that the most pressing issue is the unexplained disallowance, which constitutes more than half of the confidential funds used by the OVP in 2022.
“This raises serious concerns about how these funds were used. The fact that ₱73 million was flagged demands answers. If the Vice President’s office cannot clarify or correct these discrepancies, this could lead to more than administrative penalties—it may point to criminal liability for graft,” Dalipe warned.
The grounds for impeachment include culpable violations of the Constitution, treason, bribery, graft and corruption, betrayal of public trust, and other high crimes.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Taking notice that Vice President Sara Duterte earlier claimed that self-proclaimed “Appointed Son of God” Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy was no longer within the 30-hectare Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound where her father former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte serves as its administrator, a lawmaker on Monday (9 September 2024) has raised the possibility that they could be held liable for obstruction of justice.
House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability chairperson and Manila Rep. Joel Chua pointed out that “no one is above the law,” including those who once held the highest positions of power in the country.
“The arrest of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy within the vast Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound in Davao City raises serious concerns about the integrity and accountability of those who have direct ties to this controversial preacher,” Chua noted.
“Moreover, Vice President Sara Duterte’s previous statements downplaying Quiboloy’s presence in the compound now appear to be misleading, if not intentionally deceptive,” he added.
Chua further noted the assurance given by the Vice President that Quiboloy was no longer within the compound “calls into question her credibility and suggests an attempt to shield the preacher from justice.”
“Such actions, if proven, would not only obstruct the course of justice but also erode public trust in our officials,” the Manila Solon said.
“If the Duterte family played any role in protecting or enabling Quiboloy during his time as a fugitive, they must be held accountable, just like any other citizen,” Chua emphasized.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Netizens are buzzing over photos of the owner of the alleged illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub, recently raided in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.
The images show him appearing close with Vice President Sara Duterte and Senator Imee Marcos.
The two photos, featuring Chinese national Zao Lao alongside VP Sara and Sen. Imee, were reportedly seized by authorities during the raid at Tourist Garden Hotel on August 31.
According to reports, the Bilyonaryo News Channel, a sister outlet of Politiko, obtained exclusive access to these images.
“Tell me who your friends are, and I’ll tell you who you are,” some political pundits quipped, quoting an old saying.
However, some netizens argued that the undated photos, seemingly taken at the same event given Lao’s outfit, are “not conclusive.” They suggested it’s common for “trapos” (traditional politicians) like VP Sara and Sen. Imee to take pictures with fans or supporters.
Lao was arrested during the joint operation by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).
The PAOCC revealed that almost all of the foreigners rescued from the illegal POGO hub were former employees of the controversial Lucky South 99, previously located in Bamban, Tarlac, and Porac, Pampanga.
PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio confirmed on Wednesday, September 4, that around two-thirds of the 169 rescued employees were from these areas.
Notably, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan, a strong supporter of VP Sara, was absent during the raid.
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