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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Defense says VP Sara did not 'misuse' confidential funds

Defense says VP Sara did not 'misuse' confidential funds

Lawyer says prosecution has yet to prove allegations of misuse and misappropriation

Published Aug 4, 2026 06:31 pm
The camp of Vice President Sara Duterte reiterated that there was "no misuse" or misappropriation of the OVP's confidential funds as she faces the Senate impeachment trial. (MB Visual Content Group)
The camp of Vice President Sara Duterte reiterated that there was "no misuse" or misappropriation of the OVP's confidential funds as she faces the Senate impeachment trial. (MB Visual Content Group)
Noting that the prosecution has yet to establish its allegations, the defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte on Tuesday, August 4, reiterated that there was "no misuse" or misappropriation of the Office of the Vice President's (OVP) confidential funds.
Defense spokesperson Atty. Michael Poa made the statement after the day's impeachment trial, maintaining the camp's position on one of the central issues in the case.
"I have always maintained my position that there is no misuse. There is no misappropriation. There were no diversions to the Vice President," Poa said in a mix of English and Filipino.
He said the prosecution would have to present more evidence to substantiate its allegations.
One witness 'not enough'
Poa argued that the testimony of a single Commission on Audit (COA) witness would not be enough to prove the allegations against Duterte.
"They will not be able to prove all that with just one COA witness," he said, adding that both camps would continue presenting their respective evidence before the impeachment court.
Poa said it would ultimately be up to the senator-judges to determine whether the evidence supports the charges.

Related Tags

Sara Duterte confidential funds Sara Duterte impeachment Michael Poa OVP confidential funds Senate impeachment trial
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