Sara Duterte's OVP Budget Hearing: A Tale of Questions and Quirks

The recent budget hearing for the Office of the Vice President (OVP) led by Sara Duterte had its fair share of twists, turns, and unexpected moments.

Questions and Queries

Lawmakers peppered Duterte with a barrage of questions, probing the details of her proposed budget, plans, and priorities. Some inquiries were routine, while others raised eyebrows.

For instance, Sen. Risa Hontiveros sought clarification on the proposed P100 million allocation for a program to fight disinformation. Duterte provided a detailed explanation, emphasizing the importance of countering fake news and protecting the public from harmful misinformation.

However, Sen. Imee Marcos raised a more unique question: whether the OVP would consider establishing a "bus for the poor" that could transport them to their destinations.

Quirky Moments

Amidst the serious discussions, there were also moments of levity that lightened the mood.

When asked about her plans to use social media, Duterte quipped, "I think the last Vice President [Leni Robredo] had a lot of followers on Facebook, and I don't think I can compete with her." The audience erupted in laughter, and Duterte herself couldn't help but chuckle.

Later, Sen. Francis Tolentino noticed that Duterte had brought along her signature accessory: a stylish notebook, scribbling notes as the hearing progressed. "I think we should record that in the minutes," Tolentino joked, referring to the official transcript of the meeting.

Emotional Depth

Beneath the political back-and-forth, there were also moments of emotional depth. Duterte spoke candidly about her experiences, sharing her vision for the OVP and her commitment to serving the Filipino people.

In response to a question about her priorities, she said, "I want to make a difference in the lives of Filipinos, especially the marginalized and the vulnerable. I believe that the OVP can play a crucial role in addressing their needs and making their voices heard."

Her words resonated with the audience, who recognized the genuine passion and empathy that she brought to her role as Vice President.

Call to Action

As the hearing drew to a close, Duterte issued a powerful call to action.

"Let us work together, beyond party lines and political differences, to build a better future for all Filipinos," she urged. "Together, we can create an OVP that empowers our people, promotes inclusivity, and brings about real change."

The audience responded with applause and words of support, reflecting the hope and optimism that Duterte's leadership inspires.

Sara Duterte's OVP budget hearing was more than just a financial deliberation. It was a display of her commitment to transparency, her capacity for humor, and her unwavering determination to make a positive impact on the lives of Filipinos.