House Justice Panel Subpoenas Madriaga and Affidavit for April 14 Impeachment Hearing
The House Committee on Justice has issued a subpoena compelling Ramil Madriaga to appear at the impeachment hearing scheduled for April 14. He is required to bring his affidavit and other evidence against Vice President Sara Duterte, marking a significant development in the ongoing impeachment proceedings.
Details of the Subpoena and Allegations
According to the subpoena, Madriaga allegedly received confidential funds from the Office of the Vice-President and the Department of Education between 2022 and 2023. The funds were reportedly provided by Vice-Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) Col. Raymund Dante Lachica and were allegedly diverted to friends and acquaintances of the Vice President.
Madriaga's testimony introduces a new element to the impeachment complaint against VP Sara. Complainants argue that his statement clearly demonstrates that the Vice President purportedly misused and redirected confidential funds for personal purposes, contrary to the intended use of the funds.
Response from Vice President Duterte
Vice President Sara Duterte has vehemently denied these allegations. In response, she has filed a perjury complaint against Madriaga. Additionally, she has labeled him as part of an alleged kidnap-for-ransom group that reportedly planned to assassinate her, adding a layer of controversy to the case.
Previous Subpoenas and Ongoing Investigations
This is not the first subpoena issued by the House Committee on Justice. Previously, the committee directed Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla to attend a hearing and bring certified true copies of VP Sara's Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) from 2022–2025 and 2007–2013. This action was part of the committee's approval on March 25, indicating a thorough and ongoing investigation into the matter.
The upcoming hearing on April 14 is expected to be a critical juncture in the impeachment process, with Madriaga's testimony potentially shaping the outcome. The House Committee on Justice continues to gather evidence and testimonies to ensure a comprehensive review of the allegations against Vice President Sara Duterte.
