Manila: The leadership of the House of Representatives on Monday reaffirmed its commitment to due process and the protection of detainees' legal rights. This declaration comes in response to accusations from Vice President Sara Duterte regarding alleged irregularities in the detention of her chief of staff, lawyer Zuleika Lopez. According to Philippines News Agency, House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Representative Mannix Dalipe refuted claims that Lopez was denied access to legal counsel. Dalipe accused Duterte of disseminating misleading claims aimed at damaging the House's reputation. "The House has always respected due process and upheld the legal rights of detainees. The timeline clearly shows that the allegations of denying lawyers entry are baseless and untrue," Dalipe stated, emphasizing that legal representation was fully respected. Dalipe noted that Duterte acted as Lopez's legal counsel during critical hours, alongside lawyer Lito Go, who was granted access upon arrival. Lopez faced detenti on after being cited in contempt during a House investigation into the alleged misuse of PHP612.5 million in confidential funds under the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education during Duterte's tenure as Education Secretary. Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. addressed claims about the confiscation of Lopez's phone, clarifying that it was voluntarily surrendered in line with security protocols. Gonzales emphasized that all detainees are treated fairly under these rules. "These protocols are not arbitrary. They are enforced consistently to maintain order and security," Gonzales stated, accusing Duterte of spreading disinformation to discredit the institution. House Secretary General Reginald Velasco mentioned that detainees are allowed limited phone usage as part of routine security measures. Meanwhile, Dalipe accused Duterte of obstructing House personnel in implementing the order to transfer Lopez from the House custodial facility to the Correctional Institute for Women in Man daluyong City. Dalipe criticized Duterte's actions, questioning whether they reflect respect for the rule of law. Due to Duterte's repeated security breaches, the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability decided to transfer Lopez to the Correctional Institution for Women. However, the transfer was delayed by Duterte's intervention. Prioritizing Lopez's health, Velasco directed her temporary stay at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) in Quezon City for humanitarian reasons. Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales Representative Jefferson Khonghun dismissed Duterte's claims of delayed medical care, highlighting the swift response by House personnel. Khonghun noted that medical assistance was promptly provided, underscoring the House's responsible and compassionate actions. Dalipe asserted that the House would not allow its integrity to be undermined by misinformation. He urged the public to see through attempts to twist facts and derail justice. Gonzales criticized Duterte for pol iticizing the matter, calling it a deliberate attempt to smear the institution for political interests. He reiterated the House's dedication to fairness, transparency, and due process.