VP Duterte moves to 'terminate' House probe into fund use: 'This is a political attack'

Vice President Inday Sara Duterte attends the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability at the People’s Center, House of Representatives today, September 18, 2024. Courtesy: Office of the Vice President

MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday said she refused to be scrutinized by a House panel investigating her office's fund use, and even "requested" that they terminate the hearing—a move quickly rejected by the presiding officer.

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Duterte showed up Wednesday at the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability's probe, which was triggered by a privilege speech that raised concerns on the Office of the Vice President's fund use.

"I will not allow myself to be subjected to an inquiry based on an empty privilege speech just so you can attack me... I therefore request this committee to terminate this inquiry for clear lack of any proposed legislation or substantive matter for discussion," Duterte said.

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Panel chairperson Rep. Joel Chua did not give much weight to Duterte's remark and quickly rejected it.

"The committee cannot rule on that because the committee already took cognizance of this privilege speech. Anyway, we will now proceed," he said.

WHAT HAPPENED EARLIER

During her opening speech Wednesday, Duterte immediately went on the offensive and accused the House of carrying out a "well-funded and coordinated political attack" meant to dismantle her chances in the 2028 election.

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Duterte said her office did not do anything wrong and they were willing to answer concerns in the proper forum.

"We have not done anything wrong. There is no misuse of funds. If there are audit findings, we shall gladly respond to them before the Commission on Audit. If there are legitimate cases to be filed, then we shall gladly respond to them before the appropriate courts," she said.

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Duterte said she would continue to do her job despite the House's alleged attempt to discredit her.

"You may try to destroy me, you can skin me alive and throw my ashes to the wind. But let it be known that you will find me unbowed. I will continue to serve the people no matter the personal cost," she said.

Duterte previously said some lawmakers were working on impeaching her from office, which they denied.