Several lawmakers have denied reports that the Office of the Vice President (OVP) will be given a “zero” budget.
This comes after claims from Vice President Sara Duterte’s camp that the OVP might receive no funding.
Tingog Partylist Representative Jude Acidre stated that he respects the Office of the Vice President and believes it should receive funds to continue fulfilling its constitutional mandate.
Representative Paolo Ortega agreed with Rep. Acidre, emphasizing the need to allocate a budget to the OVP so it can carry out its responsibilities.
Ortega suggested that if cuts are made, the budget for social services should be reduced, as other agencies already handle similar functions.
Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong expressed his support for directing funds to agencies that have greater needs. Adiong, who is sponsoring the OVP’s budget, is currently in discussions with the OVP to prepare the necessary documents for the upcoming plenary session on the budget.