Sara Duterte skips 2nd budget hearing, faces criticism

Vice President Sara Duterte skipped a second budget hearing on September 10 after clashing with lawmakers during her office's initial review on August 27.

Manila 2nd District Rep. Rolando Valeriano accused Duterte of avoiding questions about the OVP’s proposed P2.037 billion budget for 2025 and past questionable fund usage, which led to significant cuts by a House panel to around P733 million.

The House panel questioned the need for satellite offices and social services funded through the OVP's budget, suggesting that these functions could be better handled by existing government agencies or private groups.

Valeriano also criticized Duterte for not providing evidence of beneficiaries and strategic partnerships mentioned in her 2025 budget proposal, raising doubts about the veracity of the figures presented.

The OVP’s recommended budget of P733 million is still subject to further debates in the House and Senate before final approval.