Rep Alvarez denies misuse of funds citing staff salaries and operational expenses

Palawan Rep. Jose Alvarez has denied allegations of misuse of public funds by the House of Representatives, refuting claims made by Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste regarding P2 million "Christmas bonus" checks.

Alvarez clarified that the checks issued were for routine, lawful disbursements covering staff salaries and operational expenses for district offices.

These funds are standard compensation and MOOE allocated to all House members to ensure their offices can function effectively and provide services to constituents.

Alvarez, who was part of the bicameral conference committee on the national budget, emphasized that these disbursements are lawful, audited, and well-documented.

He stated that these payments are crucial for the proper functioning of district offices and the delivery of services on the ground.

Alvarez's statement is the latest response from House leadership countering Leviste's corruption allegations against the lower chamber and the DPWH.