House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro today criticized Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent visit and overnight stay at the House of Representatives while continuously refusing to face the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability’s investigation on confidential funds under oath.
“The Vice President has time to visit and even spend the night at the House of Representatives, but apparently has no time to face the Committee and explain to the Filipino people how hundreds of millions in confidential funds were spent under her watch. This selective appearance speaks volumes about accountability and transparency,” Castro stated.
“Nakakapagtaka at nakakadismaya na may oras ang Bise Presidente na dumalaw at magpalipas ng gabi sa Kongreso pero wala siyang oras na humarap sa komite para magpaliwanag kung paano ginastos ang milyun-milyong confidential funds. Ang taumbayan ang nagbabayad ng buwis na pinagkukunan ng mga pondong ito,” Castro added.
The ACT Teachers solon emphasized that public officials must be ready to account for public funds entrusted to them. “We reiterate our call for VP Sara Duterte to attend our hearings and explain under oath. The Filipino people deserve no less than full transparency and accountability, especially concerning billions in confidential funds.”
“Kung walang tinatago, bakit hindi humaharap? The Vice President’s continued absence from our hearings while finding time for other House visits only reinforces public doubt about the use of these funds,” Castro concluded.#
