Vice President Sara Duterte delivered a pointed message on government accountability during a speech in Mindanao on February 25, marking the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.
Addressing members of the Association of Local Government Accountants Incorporated, Duterte emphasized transparency in public spending amid ongoing scrutiny faced by the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. over alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
“Filipinos are rightly demanding to know where your money went while they lose their homes and livelihoods to every storm,” she said.
“When budgets are bloated, but no tangible progress is felt, that is not a technical error. That is a failure of integrity in the budget process.”
Recalling the events of 1986 that led to the ouster of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., Duterte highlighted the enduring relevance of accountability.
“Forty years ago, unarmed Filipinos faced tanks with nothing but courage in their hearts,” she said. “They stood for one thing, accountability.”
Speaking under the theme “leave, grow, excel,” she urged accountants and finance officers to act as stewards of public trust.
“When the numbers do not add up, courage means saying no, even when it is uncomfortable, even when it is low,” she told the audience.
Duterte stressed that the lessons of People Power remain vital.
“February 25, 1986, has taught Filipinos that change does not always begin in the halls of authority, but it begins with conscience,” she said.
“We must always lead with principle, grow with integrity, and excel not by compliance alone but with courage in our hearts.”
She acknowledged the challenges of upholding accountability, saying, “Accountability is a lonely road. And in the Philippines, it is a lonely road to nowhere. To stand firm in the face of threats, harassment, and bribery requires courage. But remember, when you feel lonely, every time you uphold what is right, you honor the spirit of people power.”
Duterte concluded by calling on public finance officers to remain steadfast in protecting public funds and serving with integrity.