Ortega challenges OVP to show proof of impeachment trial savings

La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V challenged the Office of the Vice President (OVP) to present concrete proof, such as a cost-benefit analysis, to support their claim that it would be cheaper for the country to forego an impeachment trial.

Ortega stated that the OVP must provide a study comparing potential savings from not holding an impeachment trial against the expenses involved.

He specifically questioned a statement by OVP spokesperson Ruth Castelo, who claimed that millions would be saved if the impeachment trial does not proceed.

Ortega argued that impeachment expenses would likely not reach the P612.5 million in confidential funds received by the OVP and the Department of Education (DepEd) from 2022 to 2023, during which Duterte led both agencies.

He criticized the OVP's statement as premature and lacking sufficient backing, urging them to present a matrix of their assumptions about savings.

Ortega emphasized the importance of measurable data over soundbites.