House Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V of La Union expressed confidence on Monday in the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) ability to independently conduct its investigation and possible court martial proceedings involving military personnel linked to the alleged mishandling of Vice President Sara Duterte’s confidential funds.
Ortega stressed the importance of allowing the AFP to carry out its internal processes without outside interference.
“That’s up to the AFP,” Ortega said during a press conference. “If you remember, the AFP had already committed to leading its own investigation. They’re essentially policing their own ranks.”
“We respect whatever outcome or decision the AFP comes to regarding this matter,” he added.
The controversy involves allegations that former members of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) were connected to the questionable release of confidential funds from both the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd), agencies that Vice President Duterte led during the time in question.
Reports indicate that the AFP is forming a fact-finding committee to look into the roles of former VPSPG commander Col. Raymund Dante Lachica and his deputy, Col. Dennis Nolasco, in the disbursement of these funds.
During a House hearing in December 2024, Lachica and Nolasco were named as the officials who disbursed millions of pesos from Duterte’s confidential funds while she headed the OVP and DepEd.
Ortega’s statements highlight the delicate balance between legislative oversight and respect for the military’s internal autonomy.
