Vice President Sara Duterte has accused her critics of launching repeated “fishing expeditions” to discredit her, urging Filipinos to be discerning amid what she described as attempts to cover up corruption in government.
In a statement released by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) on Saturday, Dec. 13, Duterte said: “Hinihikayat ko ang ating mga kababayan na maging mapanuri at huwag basta magpapadala sa mga paninira.”
She added, “Hindi ito tungkol sa paghahanap ng katotohanan — ito ay tungkol sa pagtakip ng nakawan sa kaban ng bayan na hanggang ngayon ay walang nananagot.”
Her remarks followed the filing of multiple criminal complaints—including plunder, bribery, malversation, and graft—against her and 15 others before the Office of the Ombudsman on Friday, Dec. 12.
The cases stem from the alleged misuse of ₱612.5 million in confidential funds.
Duterte recalled how the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability pursued what she called a “full-blown fishing expedition” to impeach her.
She alleged that signatures for her impeachment were being solicited in exchange for budget allocations, a practice some lawmakers have reportedly confirmed.
“Another fishing expedition is now being launched, as they scramble to weaponize any accusation they can manufacture just to create a semblance of procedural legitimacy for an investigation,” she said.
The Vice President urged Filipinos to remain steadfast amid economic challenges and rising food prices, calling for prayers for peace.
She assured the public that the OVP “will continue to deliver efficient, accessible, and responsive public service for the good of all Filipinos.” (Raymund Antonio)
