VP Duterte showed pattern of secret fund reliance, House prosecutor alleges

House prosecutor Rep. Joel Chua claimed Tuesday that Vice President Sara Duterte demonstrated a consistent pattern of depending on confidential and discretionary funds throughout her political career. Speaking at a House press briefing, Chua indicated the prosecution team had identified what it characterized as repeated instances of such reliance spanning her tenure as Davao City mayor, her role leading the Office of the Vice President, and her time as head of the Department of Education.

Chua's statements represent part of ongoing efforts by lawmakers to examine the Vice President's use of public funds and financial accountability mechanisms. The House prosecution team appeared to view the pattern as significant in its assessment of Duterte's administrative practices across the various government positions she has held.

The allegations come amid broader political tensions in the Philippines, with multiple congressional bodies conducting investigations into various aspects of the Vice President's governance and spending. The nature and specifics of the confidential funds referenced by Chua were not immediately detailed in the briefing.