THE office of Vice President Sara Duterte denied that the official uses the presidential chopper daily to go home to Davao City.
Reynold Munsayac, the Vice President's spokesperson, told members of the media at the House of Representatives, that Duterte's usage of the Presidential chopper is only for necessary itineraries.
The OVP made the clarification, following Duterte's posting of a birthday greeting to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., thanking him for allowing her to use an Air Force aircraft.
Marcos celebrated his 65th birthday on Tuesday, September 13.
"Thank you, PBB [President Bongbong], and your 250th PAW [Presidential Airlift Wing] for ensuring that wherever I may be found in the country during the day, I am home in time to tuck my children to bed," Duterte said.
The post had generated negative feedback from the Vice President's critics.
Munsayac, in response, debunked "fake news" that circulated online on Duterte's supposed use of the chopper on a "daily basis" to go home in the city.
He said the Vice President's family is already residing in Manila, and her three children are also studying there.
"Land vehicles po ang ginagamit niya (She only uses land vehicles in her trips)," he added.
Munsayac also said Duterte, based on her political track record, properly utilizes government resources.
"Ginagamit lang po ang chopper kapag kailangan sa (She only uses the chopper, when needed, during) official work and functions, based sa lugar na pupuntahan at (on the area and) urgency of schedule. Sa history po ng public service ni VP Sara, alam ng lahat ng mga nakasama niya sa trabaho na (In the history of VP Sara’s public service, everyone who has worked with her know that) she is very efficient and she protects government resources at all times," he added.
Duterte had previously served as mayor of Davao City from 2010 to 2013, and 2016 to 2022. She is also the current Education Secretary. RGL