House Appropriations Committee vice chairperson Zia Alonto Adiong expressed support for slashing the proposed 2026 budget of the Office of the Vice President (OVP), criticizing Vice President Sara Duterte for skipping plenary deliberations and imposing conditions before appearing. He called Duterte’s actions “disappointing” and “an insult to the institution,” according to a report by GMA News Online.
The OVP’s proposed budget for 2026 is ₱902.8 million, nearly ₱170 million higher than its current allocation. Adiong said the additional funds were largely earmarked for consultancy fees and office supplies but lamented that Duterte failed to defend the increase before lawmakers. “Sayang nga lang kasi hindi siya pumunta, she could have at least defended that and explained to the plenary… Unfortunately, no explanation at all,” he said.
Adiong compared Duterte’s handling of the office with that of former Vice President Leni Robredo, whom he described as “resourceful” and able to implement programs effectively due to strong partnerships with NGOs and civil society.
House Infrastructure Committee co-chairperson Terry Ridon also supported a budget cut, stressing that the Vice President cannot dictate terms to Congress. “I think the Vice President is not in a position to make demands to Congress,” Ridon said. He added that the budget should reflect only what is necessary for the OVP to operate and deliver services to the public.
Both lawmakers highlighted the importance of accountability, with Ridon questioning how funds were used in the past year and how they would be spent in 2026. The House is expected to approve the proposed 2026 national budget on second reading next week and on final reading by October 13.
