Duterte's former finance officer backs VP's handling of confidential funds

MANILA — Gina Acosta, the former special disbursing officer who managed Vice President Sara Duterte's confidential funds, expressed full confidence in the Vice President's stewardship of the sensitive budget during proceedings Monday at the impeachment trial.

Acosta's statement came after Senator-judge Risa Hontiveros highlighted the precarious position of the finance official, noting that Acosta could potentially face legal consequences if irregularities in the handling of confidential funds were proven.

Confidential funds, allocated annually to the Office of the Vice President, remain largely undisclosed to the public and are typically used for intelligence and security operations. The handling of these funds has become central to the ongoing impeachment case against Duterte.

Acosta's testimony represents a significant moment in the trial, as the former disbursing officer holds critical knowledge of how the confidential funds were utilized during her tenure. Her public backing of Duterte's management practices may influence proceedings as the impeachment panel continues its examination of the Vice President's financial administration.