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AFP axes VIP security chief over link to OVP confidential fund controversy

Philippines | National

AFP axes VIP security chief over link to OVP confidential fund controversy

By Martin Sadongdong

Colonel Dante Lachica (Photo: AFP Security and Protection Group)

Colonel Dante Lachica (Photo: AFP Security and Protection Group)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed Tuesday, Oct. 7, that Colonel Raymund Dante P. Lachica was removed from his post as commander of the AFP Security and Protection Group (ASPG) amid his reported link to the ongoing Office of the Vice President (OVP) confidential fund controversy.

In a statement, the AFP said Lachica was reassigned from the ASPG, formerly Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG), to the Philippine Army (PA) effective Oct. 4, citing an existing case filed against him and former VPSPG deputy commander Colonel Dennis Nolasco before the Office of the Ombudsman.

“The AFP ensures a smooth transition of leadership to maintain the efficiency and professionalism of the ASPG in the performance of its mandated mission,” the statement read.

Lachica was replaced by Lt. Col. Joseph Israel B. Eleosida as acting commander of ASPG.

Lachica was tagged in the questionable transfer of multi-million pesos in confidential funds under the Office of Vice President Sara Duterte.

OVP Special disbursing officer Gina Acosta, in a House hearing last year, claimed that Duterte allegedly approved the turnover of P125 million in confidential funds to Lachica in 2022.

Duterte has repeatedly denied misusing confidential funds under the OVP.

Related Tags

AFP ASPG Colonel Lachica OVP confidential fund controversy corruption

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