Kyler Alvord
Updated on: October 14, 2024 11:42 am GMT
Allegations of cash gifts from Vice President Sara Duterte to officials of the Department of Education (DepEd) are stirring controversy in the Philippines, following claims made by former DepEd undersecretary Gloria Mercado. Mercado testified that during her tenure, she received envelopes containing P50,000 each month, purportedly from Duterte’s office, a claim that raises questions about the ethical conduct of government officials.
Claims of Monthly Cash Gifts
During a House inquiry focused on the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) budget utilization, Mercado detailed her experiences while serving as the head of the Department’s Procurement Entity (HoPE). She alleged that from February to September 2023, she received nine envelopes labeled “HoPE,” each allegedly containing P50,000, directly from Assistant Secretary Sunshine Fajarda.
> “Galing kay VP [Sara], is what she would typically say as she hands the envelopes,” Mercado stated during the inquiry.
Mercado further explained that these payments might have influenced decisions at DepEd, as other regional directors were reportedly receiving similar sums on top of their regular salaries.
Reactions from the Vice President
Following the accusations, Vice President Duterte responded sharply. She dismissed Mercado’s assertions, labeling her a “disgruntled former employee” who was removed due to “loss of trust and confidence.”
>”I think hindi niya matanggap bakit siya pinalayas sa DepEd (I think she could not accept why she was removed from DepEd),” Duterte said in a press conference.
Duterte’s remarks suggest a personal dimension to the accusations, highlighting potential biases in Mercado’s testimony.
Mercado’s Defense
In defense of her claims, Mercado stated that despite the heavy implications of her accusations, she stopped short of calling the envelopes bribes.
> “Uhm, it’s kind of a harsh word to use,” she admitted when pressed by lawmakers.
However, she conceded that the financial support could be viewed as an attempt to exert influence over her decision-making in her role at DepEd.
Inquiry into Buget Utilization
The ongoing investigation by the House of Representatives is not solely focused on Mercado’s testimony. It stems from broader concerns regarding how the OVP has managed its funds. Representative Joel Chua, who leads the House Good Government Committee, noted that the amounts in question exceed the threshold for plunder, warranting a closer examination.
This inquiry is part of a larger scrutiny of the OVP’s financial practices, including accusations of mismanagement of funds related to a 2022 Commission on Audit (COA) report. The COA highlighted discrepancies amounting to P73 million in non-compliant funds, which have raised serious questions about the legality and transparency of the Vice President’s financial dealings.
Looking Ahead
As the House continues its investigation, it issued show cause orders to several OVP officials for failing to attend the hearings without explanation. These orders compel the officials to justify their absence, with potential contempt charges looming for noncompliance.
The combination of Mercado’s allegations, Duterte’s vehement denial, and ongoing investigations paints a complicated picture of integrity within the Philippine education system. It underscores the significant responsibilities and ethical obligations held by those in public office.
Conclusion
Whether outright bribery or misuse of funds is at play, the accusations made by Mercado, coupled with institutional scrutiny, highlight a pressing need for transparency in government financial practices. The implications of this controversy could resonate far beyond the walls of the House of Representatives, influencing public trust in leadership and the effectiveness of the education system in the Philippines.
If you’re curious about this ongoing story, we will keep sharing updates. These updates will explain both sides of the issue and what it might mean for the future of the Philippine government and its school policies.
