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Sara Duterte’s Impeachment Trial Addresses Use of Confidential Funds

Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial featured testimonies regarding the use of confidential funds for various purposes, shedding light on recent tree-planting activities and fund disbursements.

25 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Sara Duterte’s Impeachment Trial Addresses Use of Confidential Funds — Photo: House of Representatives of the Philippines · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

During the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, the prosecution team highlighted that she conducted a tree-planting activity in Lanao del Norte despite the absence of confidential funds. This information was presented in court on Monday, where it was emphasized that her actions were completed without secret financial backing, as pointed out by the prosecution.

Former special disbursing officer Gina Acosta testified that Vice President Duterte approved the use of four traveling bags to transport ₱125 million in confidential funds. This transaction occurred at the Land Bank Shaw Boulevard branch on December 20, 2022, suggesting a structured approach to the handling of these funds.

Questions arose concerning Army Colonel Raymund Dante Lachica's role in the disbursement of ₱500 million in confidential funds from the Office of the Vice President. A witness labeled Lachica as merely an “implementer” of Duterte's orders, raising discussions regarding the actual management of these finances during the proceedings.

A separate witness indicated that payments for supplies, including chairs, medicines, and food, went directly to informants and agents associated with the Office of the Vice President. This testimony was provided by OVP Assistant Secretary Lemuel Ortonio during his appearance in court on Tuesday, linking spending decisions to specific personnel in the OVP.

Additionally, it was revealed that the Office of the Vice President sought P250 million in confidential funds prior to formulating plans for their expenditure. This point was raised by a witness, highlighting concerns about the protocol followed in securing these funds for operational needs.

The testimonies presented in court have contributed to a complex narrative surrounding the management and use of confidential funds within the Office of the Vice President. As the trial continues, the focus remains on the actions taken by Duterte and her associates regarding these finances.

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