The Philippine House of Representatives is scrutinizing the Office of the Vice President (OVP) regarding the allocation of funds for the establishment and maintenance of satellite offices across the nation. This investigation is part of a broader inquiry into Vice President Sara Duterte’s management of confidential and intelligence funds. The inquiry aims to ensure accountability in the utilization of public resources.
The House of Representatives resumed this inquiry, focusing on how nearly half of the OVP’s budget for 2023 and 2024 was allocated to the satellite offices. The inquiry highlights the large increase in spending compared to previous years. According to reports, approximately 53 million pesos were spent on leasing 10 satellite offices and two extension offices nationwide. This figure represents a significant rise from the 4.1 million pesos spent in previous years.
Representative Joel Chua spearheaded the inquiry, emphasizing the necessity to examine the fund utilization within the OVP and the Department of Education, which Vice President Duterte also heads. Chua underscored that the investigation is not politically motivated but solely focused on ensuring financial accountability and transparency in the public sector.
During the House inquiry, the Commission on Audit (COA) expressed concern over the expense, labeling it a possible misuse of public funds. There were calls for a thorough inspection of these satellite offices to verify their operational necessity and cost-effectiveness. Lawmakers labeled the expenditure as a potential “waste of money,” leading to heightened scrutiny of the office’s financial management practices.
Vice President Duterte attended a House panel hearing to address these allegations. There, she defended the establishment of the satellite offices, asserting that they were essential for improving public service accessibility across the country. Her office maintained that the satellite locations were strategically chosen to benefit citizens in remote areas, thereby enhancing service delivery.
Despite Vice President Duterte’s assurances, the House inquiry continues to raise questions about the OVP’s spending patterns. In response to the investigation, the House panel issued subpoenas to several OVP officers who had previously skipped attending the probe. This measure aims to ensure comprehensive testimony and evidence collection during the proceedings.
The ongoing scrutiny of the OVP’s budget and fund management has also led to significant budgetary changes for the office. The House of Representatives approved a 1.3 billion peso cut in the OVP’s budget for 2025, reallocating these funds to other departments such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Health (DOH).
