ASPG commander sacked amid P50M confidential fund misuse raps

Colonel Raymund Dante Lachica has been removed as commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Security and Protection Group (ASPG) due to alleged misuse of confidential funds.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed Lachica was transferred back to the Philippine Army effective October 4.

Plunder charges have been recommended against Lachica and retired Maj. Gen. Nolasco Mempin before the Ombudsman for allegedly amassing at least P50 million in public funds.

These charges are related to the alleged spending of P125 million in confidential funds allocated to the Office of the Vice President in December 2022.

Gina Acosta, OVP special disbursing officer, claimed that VP Sara Duterte personally approved the release of these funds to Lachica in 2022.

DepEd disbursing officer Edward Fajarda also stated that P37.5 million was withdrawn in tranches and handed to former VPSPG deputy commander Colonel Dennis Nolasco in 2023.

Lt. Col. Joseph Israel Eleosida has replaced Lachica as commander of the ASPG.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro assured lawmakers that the AFP continues to provide security for Vice President Sara Duterte.