Sara Duterte addresses confidential funds claims, denies fictitious names in impeachment trial

Vice President Sara Duterte addressed claims about alleged recipients of confidential funds during a press conference and again in an interview in The Hague, stating that these matters would be discussed during her impeachment trial.

Duterte noted that aliases are often used in intelligence operations and cautioned the public against believing pronouncements from House members regarding fictitious names, adding that two intelligence experts will serve as resource persons during the trial.

She assured the public that her legal team is actively preparing for the trial by gathering evidence and affidavits from witnesses.

Duterte also detailed the role of her new spokesperson, Ruth Castelo, who will focus on bringing good news about the Office of the Vice President without engaging in political attacks.

When asked about additional IT equipment and personnel needs, Duterte directed questions to Castelo regarding the OVP's increased 2026 budget request from P733 million to P903 million.