Rep Chua says VP Duterte's office budget probe is not political, exceeds plunder threshold

Manila 3rd District Representative Joel Chua stated on Wednesday, September 25, that the investigation into Vice President Sara Duterte's office budget is not politically motivated but rather due to the funds exceeding the plunder threshold.

During a House committee hearing, Chua presented figures showing P73 million of the Office of the Vice President's (OVP) confidential funds were disallowed and P164 million was flagged by the Commission on Audit in 2023.

Chua emphasized that these amounts surpass the P50-million threshold for plunder, making the investigation crucial to ensure public accountability.

Vice President Duterte responded through a letter dated September 23, stating that the committee's inquiry is unnecessary and based on unsubstantiated claims made by Manila 2nd District Representative Rolando Valeriano.

Duterte skipped the hearing on Wednesday, claiming the probe stands on unsubstantiated allegations and violates her rights as a person appearing before the panel.

The Vice President also cited issues pending before the Supreme Court that should not be discussed in the House to avoid violating the rule on sub judice.