The controversy over the use of public funds by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) under Vice President Sara Duterte continues to intensify, as high-profile voices join the clamor for her personal accountability.

On Thursday, Speaker Martin Romualdez publicly criticized Duterte for sending her subordinates to explain how ₱612.5 million in confidential funds was used under her leadership at the OVP and DepEd. Romualdez, leading the 300-member House of Representatives, expressed disappointment at Duterte’s refusal to directly address lawmakers’ inquiries.

“It is the Vice President herself who must answer these questions,” Romualdez said, marking a rare public critique of Duterte by the influential Speaker. His remarks come in the wake of revelations that the OVP and DepEd allocated significant funds to confidential expenses, raising concerns about transparency and proper allocation of public money.

Critics argue that delegating such sensitive explanations to agency officials circumvents the principle of public accountability. Senator Risa Hontiveros previously noted, “This is a matter of public trust. The people deserve answers from the top official, not from intermediaries.”

Growing Demand for Transparency

Civil society organizations and opposition lawmakers have echoed the Speaker’s call for Duterte to appear before Congress. The Transparency Advocacy Network emphasized that public confidence hinges on a leader’s willingness to take responsibility for their actions.

The ₱612.5 million confidential funds expenditure has drawn scrutiny for its unusual allocation to the DepEd, which traditionally focuses on education rather than intelligence operations. Budget Undersecretary Annalyn Sevilla, tasked with defending the allocation during budget hearings, described the funds as aligned with agency objectives but offered limited details, citing confidentiality.

Meanwhile, Duterte released a brief statement asserting that the funds were utilized lawfully. However, she has avoided addressing the matter personally, further fueling calls for accountability.

Divisions Within the Administration

Romualdez’s remarks mark a significant political moment, highlighting growing fractures within the administration’s coalition. Duterte had earlier described the Speaker in unflattering terms during a private meeting, according to reports, suggesting rising tensions between key government leaders.

Dr. Ramon Casiple, a political analyst, suggested that this confrontation could have broader implications. “The Speaker’s critique signals not just a demand for transparency but also a shift in political alliances. This could impact how governance issues play out in the coming months,” Casiple said.

Impact on Public Perception

On the ground, educators and advocacy groups, including the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), have renewed their calls to reallocate confidential funds to pressing educational needs, such as classroom infrastructure and teacher welfare. The growing backlash underscores public discontent over prioritizing opaque expenditures over tangible improvements in public education.

As the controversy continues, the spotlight remains firmly on Duterte. Whether she heeds these calls and addresses the nation directly may significantly shape perceptions of her leadership and commitment to public accountability. For now, the public waits for answers from the Vice President herself.