Sara Duterte's defense admits 'aliases' used in confidential fund receipts

For the first time, a defense counsel for Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte confirmed that the names appearing on acknowledgment receipts (ARs) used to liquidate confidential funds from the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Office of the Vice President (OVP) were aliases. During the 22nd day of Duterte’s impeachment trial, defense lawyer Justine Gular clarified a long-standing question about whether the names listed in the alleged informants’ ARs were real. "Given that it became a material matter, we have to couch this answer that is classified matter — but these are in fact, aliases, your Honor, for the consideration of this court," Gular stated. He added, "I hope you understand, your Honor, that in threshing out this matter, having in mind the reminder of the good presiding officer, we will do this at the appropriate time during our presentation of evidence. I will veer away from making conclusion of law or facts, as of the moment." This admission by Duterte's legal team marks a significant development in the impeachment proceedings, directly addressing persistent questions about the transparency and accountability of confidential fund disbursements. Previously, reports indicated that some recipients' names on these receipts included those of children and deceased individuals, raising further concerns. The use and oversight of confidential funds in the Philippines have frequently been subjects of political debate, with civil society groups calling for stricter controls and greater accountability. This latest revelation underscores the ongoing challenge of ensuring proper management of public funds and transparency in governance.