MANILA – Some lawmakers on Tuesday accepted Vice President Sara Duterte’s challenge to undergo drug and psychiatric tests, but with a condition of their own.
Members of the House’s “Young Guns” said Duterte must testify under oath before the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, which is investigating allegations of fund misuse in the Office of the Vice President (OVP), as well as in the Department of Education (DepEd) during her tenure as secretary.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales 1st District Rep. Jay Khonghun said the lawmakers’ willingness to take the tests was rooted in the principle of accountability, which he said every public official must uphold.
“I am prepared to take these tests, and I am sure my colleagues are as well. However, the public deserves the same level of transparency when it comes to the use of public funds, and this can only happen if Vice President Duterte agrees to testify,” Khonghun said in a news release.
Khonghun further stressed that transparency should go both ways, adding, “if she wants to challenge us, she should be ready to face the House Blue Ribbon Committee and testify under oath.”
Duterte’s challenge stemmed from criticisms following her press conference on October 18, when she attacked some members of the First Family.
House Assistant Majority Leader and La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega V said the lawmakers are prepared to meet Vice President’s challenge, but she must also demonstrate accountability by addressing the allegations of funds misuse.
“If we’re going to undergo these tests, let’s level the playing field. We’re all public servants here, so let’s agree that anyone failing the drug or psychiatric test should face the consequences, and anyone found misusing public funds should also be held accountable,” Ortega said.
“Only then will this challenge truly serve the public interest,” Ortega added.
Ortega said the tests must be conducted fairly by neutral third-party groups of medical experts.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said the tests can be scheduled within the next few days.
“We’re ready for these tests. Let’s schedule it within the next few days. But more than that, we challenge the Vice President to step forward and answer the people’s questions about her office’s budget use. The real test of leadership is accountability and we hope she’s ready for that,” Adiong said.
House Minority Leader and Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon stressed the legal consequences for any official failing the drug test, citing the Dangerous Drugs Act.
House Deputy Majority Leader and PBA Party-list Rep. Migs Nograles and Davao Oriental 2nd District Rep. Cheeno Almario also vowed to undergo the tests. (PNA)