Vice President Sara Duterte has refuted claims that she is a “spoiled brat” following criticisms from lawmakers over her behavior during recent budget hearings for her office’s 2025 funds.
In a taped interview distributed by the Office of the Vice President on Monday, Duterte labeled the “spoiled brat” narrative as part of attacks against her, asserting that her public record speaks for itself. “Hindi ako ‘bratinella’ o spoiled brat… Testigo ko ang buong bayan,” she said, adding that she has never abused her authority in her various positions.
Duterte’s comments come after heated exchanges during her office’s budget hearing in the House of Representatives, where she was questioned about the confidential funds allocated to her office in 2023. When ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro brought up the issue, Duterte fired back by questioning Castro’s presence in the chamber, referring to a past conviction.
During the same hearing, Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo urged Duterte to act respectfully, but Duterte countered that she was being unfairly “crucified” by the panel. Duterte later asked for Quimbo to be replaced as the presiding officer, a request that was denied.
Despite the tensions, Duterte maintained her respect for Congress’s role in overseeing the budget. “Nakalagay ‘yan sa ating Saligang Batas na ang Kongreso natin ang mayroong ‘power of the purse,’” she stated, explaining that her decision to forgo the question-and-answer portion was not a refusal to be scrutinized, but rather an attempt to avoid political attacks.
However, several lawmakers, including House Deputy Minority Leader France Castro, emphasized the need for Duterte to provide a clear account of how her office’s confidential funds were spent, with Castro urging the Vice President to “stop the drama.”
Duterte’s office has not confirmed whether she will attend the next budget deliberations or send a representative. The second part of her interview is set to be released on September 10.