ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro called for a thorough review of the procurement process and overall budget of the Department of Education.

“We must uphold the principles of good governance and fiscal responsibility. It is crucial to establish transparency and accountability in all government offices,” Castro said.

The lawmaker also criticized the Office of the Vice President for taking shortcuts in its procurement, urging the agency to be accountable for its actions.

Vice President Sara Duterte is the concurrent Education Secretary.

Given that the OVP has millions of confidential and intelligence funds that require scrutiny, Castro emphasized the importance of addressing this matter seriously.

“We are deeply concerned about the OVP’s alleged shortcuts in procurement processes. This is a matter that should not be taken lightly, especially considering that millions, even billions, of taxpayer’s money are involved,” Castro said.

The Commission on Audit said in its report that purchases made by the OVP in the establishment of its satellite offices did not comply with regulations.

Castro vowed to bring up this issue in the forthcoming budget deliberations.

“We will not let this pass without proper investigation and accountability. It is our duty to ensure that public funds are spent in a transparent and accountable manner,” she said.