Ombudsman directs VP Sara Duterte to respond within ten days

The Ombudsman's swift action on a committee report recommending criminal charges against Vice President Sara Duterte and others over alleged misuse of public funds has surprised the House of Representatives.

Manila Representative Joel Chua noted that the House adopted the committee report on June 10, which was received by the Office of the Ombudsman on June 16; three days later, on June 19, the Ombudsman directed Duterte and others to respond within ten days.

Chua expressed surprise over the Ombudsman's rapid response, noting that his committee report submitted to the Ombudsman did not yet include all evidence supporting the charges.

House impeachment prosecutor Iloilo Rep. Lorenz Defensor welcomed the Ombudsman's investigation but noted it would not impact ongoing Senate impeachment proceedings.

Chua emphasized that no criminal action should be taken against Duterte until the Senate issues its verdict, citing a previous Supreme Court decision.