Vice Pres Duterte's chf stf cited contemp lack knowl OVP funds

On Wednesday, Zuleika Lopez, Vice President Sara Duterte's chief of staff and Undersecretary, testified before a congressional hearing that she lacks knowledge about how the Office of the Vice President (OVP) uses its confidential funds.

During the hearing, Deputy Speaker David Suarez questioned Lopez on why Rosalynne Sanchez, OVP Director for Administrative and Finance Services, identified her as one of three people with access to confidential fund transactions, along with Special Disbursement Officer Gina Acosta and Vice President Duterte.

Speaker Martin Romualdez called for Vice President Sara Duterte to face the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability to explain the disbursement of OVP and Department of Education confidential funds after Lopez stated she had no role in releasing these funds.

Lawmakers noted inconsistencies in Lopez's statements, particularly regarding her claim that she had no knowledge but signed letters addressing Commission on Audit (COA) audit observations.

The House committee cited Lopez in contempt for alleged undue interference in the inquiry and ordered the arrest of other OVP officials who failed to show up before the panel.

House good government and public accountability panel chairperson Joel Chua suggested that impeaching Vice President Duterte was a reasonable action, although it may not be feasible due to upcoming elections.