House panel requests PSA to verify identities of 677 confidential fund recipients, finds 405 with no birth records

A House panel requested the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to verify the identities of 677 alleged recipients of confidential funds from offices led by Vice President Sara Duterte.

The PSA confirmed that at least 405 out of these individuals have no birth record in their database, raising concerns about the legitimacy and transparency of the fund distribution.

Panel chair Manila Rep. Joel Chua emphasized the importance of verifying civil registry documents including birth and marriage records to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of funds.

The investigation revealed discrepancies such as wrong dates, unnamed signatories, or unreadable signatures on acknowledgment receipts submitted by the OVP and DepEd.

Vice President Duterte has denied allegations of corruption and stated that the House investigation is part of a political persecution strategy, while two impeachment complaints have been filed against her.

Lawmakers are now looking into where P612.5 million was spent and possible charges for those involved in the misuse of funds.