The Office of the Vice President (OVP) declined to attend a House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability hearing on Tuesday, labeling it as “unnecessary and plagued with irregularities.” It also argued that the inquiry lacks legislative significance.
The OVP stated that the invitation arrived late, citing that the office only received it on November 4, with insufficient time to prepare.
The office led by Vice President Sara Duterte also said the subpoena is invalid, noting the risk of violating a witness’s right to adequate notice.
The OVP referenced Section 8 of the Rules Governing Inquiries in Aid of Legislation, which “mandates that a subpoena be served at least three days prior to a hearing, ensuring witnesses have ample time to prepare and, if desired, to secure legal counsel.”
Additionally, the OVP questioned the purpose of the hearing, challenging the claim that it was conducted “in aid of legislation.”
“The ongoing congressional probe, which originated from Privilege Speech No. 379 by Hon. Rolando Valeriano on September 3, 2024, is not in aid of legislation,” the OVP asserted in a statement.
The statement further argued, “P.S. No. 379, along with the motu proprio inquiry initiated by Hon. Gerville Luistro, lacks clear legislative objectives or any intended legislation as an outcome of the discussions.”
The OVP urged the House panel and its members to adhere to discussions that are “germane to the subject matter at hand” and to respect its right to decline invitations free from “insinuations” of the members of the Congress.
