Witness Testifies VP Sara Duterte Ordered Confidential Funds Delivery to Ombudsman
In a dramatic hearing before the House Justice Committee, witness Ramil Madriaga revealed that Vice President Sara Duterte personally instructed him to deliver confidential funds to three distinct locations, including the Office of the Ombudsman. This testimony emerged during the impeachment complaint proceedings against the Vice President, adding a significant twist to the ongoing legal and political scrutiny.
Detailed Allegations of Fund Delivery
Under questioning by Bicol Saro Party List Representative Terry Ridon, Madriaga confirmed the details outlined in his supplemental affidavit. He admitted to taking and delivering the funds to specific sites: a location in Laguna, a place referred to as Nomu Bashu, and the Ombudsman's office on Agham Road. When Ridon formally inquired about who authorized the transaction, Madriaga directly pointed to the Vice President, asserting her involvement in the matter.
Contradiction of VP Duterte's Defense
Madriaga strongly refuted Duterte's defense in the perjury case she is facing. Ridon shared the Vice President's sworn statement with the committee, in which she claimed not to know Madriaga personally or professionally. In response, Madriaga insisted that the Vice President is lying, stating that many government officials and colleagues could verify their relationship due to frequent meetings. He emphasized that he spent nearly 24 hours a day with Duterte during the peak of the election campaign, highlighting their close association.
Evidence Presented to Support Claims
To substantiate his allegations, Madriaga presented photographs to the committee, which were included as Annex B in his narrative. Through a video conference displayed during the hearing, he confirmed that the pictures were taken from their meetings, providing visual evidence to back his testimony. This move aims to challenge the Vice President's denials and add credibility to the witness's account in the high-stakes impeachment proceedings.
