Opposition lawmaker France Castro, Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, expressed concerns that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) may absolve Vice President Sara Duterte’s security officers of accountability in the investigation into the misuse of confidential funds.
During a hearing by the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, Castro highlighted gaps in the ongoing probe. “What happened to the funds, and why are there fabricated names?” she questioned, adding that a military-led investigation risks shielding high-ranking officials while scapegoating lower-level personnel, like former special disbursing officer Gina Acosta.
Castro stressed that entrusting the AFP could undermine impartiality, fearing justice might not prevail. The investigation revealed irregularities in fund disbursement involving both the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd).
Committee Chair Joel Chua suggested referring the issue to impeachment proceedings, pending Committee on Justice deliberation. The Office of the Ombudsman may also conduct trials based on findings.
Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur Representative Zia Alonto Adiong said the hearings confirmed misuse of confidential funds, describing impeachment as the “perfect avenue” to establish the security officers’ culpability.
