Former Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV and the civil society organization The Silent Majority (TSM) have filed a new complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman against Vice President Sara Duterte. The complaint alleges misuse of confidential funds and other offenses committed during her time as Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), as Mayor of Davao City, and in her current role as Vice President.
Details of the Allegations
The complaint lists nine specific allegations against Vice President Duterte. These include plunder and malversation related to P650 million in confidential funds used during her time as Vice President and Secretary of DepEd, and P2.7 billion in confidential funds used during her term as Davao City mayor. Further allegations involve graft and malversation related to P8 billion in allegedly overpriced DepEd laptops, P7 billion in unliquidated cash advances from DepEd, and P12 billion in Commission on Audit disallowances at DepEd.
The allegations also include claims of ill-gotten wealth – specifically, P2 billion in undeclared bank deposits and assets – and bribery related to alleged funds received from a drug lord while she was Mayor of Davao City. Finally, the complaint cites threats made against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as grounds for deeming her unfit to hold public office and a betrayal of public trust.
Concerns Raised by Complainants
TSM founder Jocelyn Acosta stated in Filipino that Vice President Duterte’s alleged spending habits originated during her time as Davao City vice mayor and have continued in her current position. The complainants also referenced an affidavit submitted by detainee Ramil Madriaga in December 2025, alleging Duterte’s involvement in the misuse of P650 million in confidential funds and funds from Philippine offshore gaming operators.
Trillanes noted that the evidence supporting Madriaga’s allegations was also included in a previous complaint filed in December.
What Happens Next?
The Office of the Ombudsman will now review the complaint and determine whether to initiate a formal investigation. If an investigation is launched, Vice President Duterte will likely be asked to respond to the allegations. Depending on the findings of the investigation, the Ombudsman could file charges in court. It is also possible the Ombudsman could dismiss the complaint if it finds insufficient evidence. The process could take considerable time, and the outcome is uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific offenses are alleged in the complaint?
The complaint alleges plunder, malversation, graft, bribery, and betrayal of public trust, stemming from alleged actions during Vice President Duterte’s time as Mayor of Davao City, Secretary of DepEd, and Vice President.
Who filed the complaint?
Former Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV and the civil society organization The Silent Majority (TSM) filed the complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman on Wednesday, January 21.
What role does Ramil Madriaga’s affidavit play in the allegations?
Madriaga’s affidavit, submitted in December 2025, alleges Duterte’s involvement in the misuse of P650 million in confidential funds and money from Philippine offshore gaming operators. The complainants referenced this affidavit as supporting their claims.
Given the gravity of these allegations, what level of public scrutiny do you anticipate this case will receive as it moves forward?
