House of Representatives Denies Filing Complaint
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives firmly denied on Friday that it filed any complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman regarding Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged misuse of confidential funds. The exact four word keyphrase “House of Representatives complaint” was emphasized early in the statement to clarify the chamber’s position.
During a press conference, House Spokesperson Princess Abante made it clear that the lower chamber did not initiate or file any complaint against Duterte. This clarification came after Ombudsman Samuel Martires directed the Vice President to respond to such allegations.
Committee Report and Ombudsman Action
Abante explained, “What I can confirm to you is that the plenary adopted the report of the committee on good government and public accountability on June 10, and then the committee report was furnished to the Ombudsman, and they received it on June 16.” She added that the Ombudsman seemed to have acted based on the committee’s recommendation rather than a formal complaint from the House or its committee.
When asked about the timing of the Ombudsman’s order, Abante refrained from commenting. However, she emphasized that the House is focused on the upcoming impeachment trial and continues to observe the developments in the investigation.
Confusion Over Complainant Identity
Regarding why the Ombudsman identified the House of Representatives as the complainant, Abante responded simply, “Really, why?” She maintained that while the chamber did not file a complaint, it supports the Ombudsman’s duty to investigate and will respond accordingly depending on the inquiry’s outcome.
House Committee’s Recommendation for Charges
In June, the House of Representatives adopted the report from the committee on good government and public accountability. This report recommended filing criminal charges against Vice President Duterte and several officials from her office for alleged misuse of confidential funds.
The recommended charges included technical malversation, falsification and use of falsified documents, perjury, bribery and corruption, as well as plunder, betrayal of public trust, and culpable violation of the Constitution. These charges target current and former officials of the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.
Princess Abante reassured that the House will closely monitor the Ombudsman’s investigation and act accordingly once the findings are clear.
For more news and updates on the House of Representatives complaint, visit Filipinokami.com.