Politics · Philippines Bureau
Duterte aide faces Senate grilling over DepEd secret funds
A spokesperson for Vice President Sara Duterte is set to become a key witness in the Senate impeachment trial as prosecutors examine how P112.5 million in confidential Department of Education funds were allegedly misused.
LSN Philippines ·
Michael Poa, who serves in Duterte's office, is expected to provide crucial testimony when the Senate impeachment proceedings resume for its ninth week on Tuesday. Prosecutors plan to present documentary evidence tracing the controversial expenditure of the confidential funds from the education agency.
The DepEd secret funds have become central to the impeachment case, with lawmakers seeking to establish a clear paper trail showing how the substantial amount was allegedly diverted or misappropriated. Poa's testimony is considered vital as he may have direct knowledge of communications and decisions related to the fund transfers.
The trial has intensified scrutiny on the Vice President's office and its connections to the education department's financial management. Senate investigators have emphasized the importance of documentary evidence and witness accounts in establishing the facts surrounding the P112.5 million allocation.
As the ninth week of hearings approaches, legal analysts expect the testimony to reveal critical details about the chain of command and authorization processes that governed the use of DepEd's confidential budget. The case continues to draw public attention as lawmakers work to determine accountability for the disputed funds.