In Just 11 Days in 2022, OVP Reportedly Spent ₱16 Million
OVP – The Office of the Vice President, under Vice President Sara Duterte, allegedly spent ₱16 million in 11 days during the last quarter of 2022.
During a recent hearing by the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, members expressed shock over the reported expenditure of ₱16 million by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) under Vice President Sara Duterte. This amount was allegedly spent within just 11 days during the last quarter of 2022, raising significant concerns among lawmakers regarding transparency and accountability in government spending.
The ₱16 million reportedly came from the OVP’s confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) and was primarily used to rent 34 safehouses. Congressman Joel Chua, who leads the anti-corruption panel, revealed that the OVP rented these safehouses at a daily rate of ₱91,000. This revelation prompted further scrutiny, especially since such a significant expenditure in a short timeframe warrants investigation.
According to a report by Manila Bulletin, the records examined during the hearing showed that the OVP spent ₱16 million on these safehouses, with rental costs ranging from ₱250,000 to ₱1 million between December 21 and December 31, 2022. This spending was justified by the OVP in a liquidation report submitted to the Commission on Audit (COA), which detailed a total expenditure of ₱125 million from the CIF within the same period.
Despite the gravity of these allegations, no representatives from the OVP were present at the hearing. Congressman Chua expressed disappointment over their absence, highlighting the importance of the Vice President’s attendance to address the concerns raised. He stated, “Sana nga lang mag-take siya ng oath, at tsaka sana sagutin din niya yung mga katanungan,” emphasizing the need for accountability in government operations.
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