Manila: The House of Representatives clarified that it did not directly file a complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte before the Office of the Ombudsman, amid reports that the anti-graft body had ordered her and several officials to respond to serious charges, including plunder and corruption.

According to Philippines News Agency, House spokesperson Princess Abante addressed the issue in a press briefing, stating that they had not received a copy of the order to file a counter-affidavit. Abante acknowledged learning about the order through reports and social media. She emphasized that while the House or its Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability did not file any complaint, the Ombudsman acted upon the committee's recommendation.

The House adopted the findings of the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability on June 10, concerning the alleged misuse of confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) under Duterte's leadership. This report was subsequently sent to the Ombudsman on June 16.

Abante reiterated that the plenary adopted the committee's report on June 10, and it was furnished to the Ombudsman, who received it on June 16. She noted that the Ombudsman has the authority to initiate investigations independently, following the committee's recommendations.

While the House endorsed the committee's report, Abante clarified that it was not the complainant in the case. The report recommended filing multiple charges against Duterte and other officials, including technical malversation, falsification of documents, perjury, bribery, plunder, and violations of the constitution.