VP Duterte's confidential fund system traced to Davao City practices

MANILA — Legislators investigating Vice President Sara Duterte's confidential fund (CF) spending have traced the administration's financial practices to systems established during her tenure as Davao City mayor, according to statements made during a congressional briefing Friday.

Representatives examining the matter noted that the structure governing how confidential funds are disbursed from the Vice President's offices mirrors procedures implemented in Davao City's local government, raising questions about the continuity of financial management practices between the two administrations.

Significantly, some personnel responsible for overseeing the city's discretionary fund allocations have reportedly transitioned to similar roles at the national level, bringing their operational methods to the Vice President's offices. This overlap in personnel and procedures forms the basis of lawmakers' concerns regarding fiscal transparency and accountability.

Lanao del Sur Representative Zia Alonto Adiong was among the legislators presenting findings during the briefing, which examined how confidential funds allocated to the Vice President's office have been utilized since her assumption of national office.

The investigation into CF expenditures continues as Congress seeks to clarify the justification and approval mechanisms underlying the Vice President's discretionary spending.