Public school teachers, supported by organizations like the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), are backing calls for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. Recent revelations at the House of Representatives highlight significant anomalies in Duterte’s spending as Vice President and her previous role as Secretary of Education. These findings have sparked outrage among educators and concerned citizens.
Serious Allegations of Misuse of Public Funds
The investigation revealed troubling issues related to confidential funds amounting to ₱612.5 million, with ₱500 million tied to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and ₱112.5 million to the Department of Education (DepEd). Allegations include falsified accomplishment reports, misuse of funds, and bribery schemes.
Key concerns raised by the House committee include:
- A ₱15 million Youth Leaders Summit expense allegedly spent in just 11 days.
- The rental of a ₱1 million-per-day safe house, with no clear justification.
- Use of fictitious names like “Mary Grace Piattos” on financial documents.
- Duplicate signatures under different identities.
These discrepancies have led Congress to suggest grounds for impeachment, including betrayal of public trust and corruption.
Teachers Demand Accountability and Transparency
Organizations such as ACT and CONTEND have expressed strong support for impeachment efforts. They argue that these funds could have been used to address critical shortages in public schools, such as classrooms, learning materials, and teacher salaries.
ACT Chairman Vladimer Quetua stated:
“We call on Congress to prioritize its oversight functions and pursue a thorough investigation. These diversions and theatrics must not distract us from demanding accountability.”
Similarly, CONTEND condemned Duterte’s behavior, including an expletive-laden press conference, as an attempt to shift focus from the allegations. They urged educators and students to remain vigilant.
Grounds for Impeachment
According to Rep. Joel Chua, chairman of the House committee on good government and public accountability, several actions by Duterte may qualify as grounds for impeachment. These include:
- Betrayal of Public Trust – Mismanagement of confidential funds without proper documentation.
- Corruption – Use of falsified documents and unexplained expenditures.
- Disturbing Behavior – A recent statement by Duterte threatening President Marcos, deemed inappropriate for her position.
Chua emphasized the importance of accountability, saying:
“Public officials, especially the second highest in the land, must choose their words carefully. The Vice President should address these issues and provide logical explanations.”
Calls to Abolish Confidential Funds
The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) has also urged Congress to abolish all confidential funds. They argue that these funds have become breeding grounds for corruption and should instead be redirected to vital public services such as education and healthcare.
ACT’s proposal aligns with public sentiment that resources should benefit students and teachers, rather than being misused.
Broader Implications for the Education Sector
The alleged misuse of funds under Duterte’s leadership as DepEd Secretary is especially concerning, given the severe shortages faced by public schools:
- Lack of classrooms and facilities.
- Insufficient teaching materials.
- Overburdened teachers with inadequate pay.
Educators argue that these issues highlight a disconnect between government priorities and the real needs of Filipino students and teachers.
What Happens Next?
The House committee is expected to conclude its investigation soon. Whether an impeachment case will move forward depends on the willingness of Congress members to act on these findings. As public pressure grows, lawmakers face calls to hold Duterte accountable for any proven wrongdoing.
Conclusion
The calls for Sara Duterte’s impeachment reflect growing frustration among teachers and the broader public over alleged corruption. Educators argue that public funds must be used to address pressing educational needs, not wasted on unexplained expenditures. As investigations continue, the demand for transparency and accountability remains strong.
The outcome of this case will set a precedent for how government officials are held accountable, ensuring public trust in leadership is maintained.
