Duterte’s Refusal to Explain Funds Sparks Budget Cuts and Impeachment Calls

Vice President Sara Duterte’s refusal to answer questions about her confidential expenses during a congressional hearing has sparked calls for a lower budget for her office and even impeachment. House Deputy Minority Leader France Castro, citing the Commission on Audit’s (COA) notice of disallowance regarding the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) use of confidential funds, argued that Duterte’s actions are grounds for impeachment. Some lawmakers, including those from the leftist Makabayan bloc, have expressed concerns about Duterte’s refusal to be transparent and accountable. They are considering reducing her budget for 2025 if she continues to stonewall their inquiries. Duterte, in turn, has accused lawmakers of plotting to remove her from office, citing confidential conversations about impeachment proceedings.