Rep Suarez questions VP spox over COA letter

Quezon 2nd District Representative David 'Jay Jay' Suarez questioned Vice President Sara Duterte's spokesperson Chelou Jacinto Lopez about a letter sent to the Commission on Audit (COA) dated August 21, 2024.

Lopez confirmed that she wrote the letter asking COA not to comply with a subpoena from the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability for documents related to confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President (OVP).

The OVP sent another letter to COA requesting non-compliance, confirming Lopez's involvement as an undersigned official.

Lopez defended her actions by stating that she consulted with OVP Assistant Chief of Staff Lemuel Ortonio and emphasized that there is still an ongoing audit process.

Representative Suarez criticized the OVP for disrespecting congressional subpoena authority and depriving the public of information on how confidential funds were used.

Suarez argued that OVP's actions were uncalled for, especially since they are under investigation, urging them to let auditors comply if there is nothing to hide.