Philippine Vice President Faces Backlash Over Book Funding

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte's request for a P10 million budget allocation to print her children's book 'Isang Kaibigan' has sparked significant criticism and controversy. During a Senate budget hearing, Senator Risa Hontiveros challenged the appropriateness of using taxpayer money for the book, arguing it serves as political propaganda intended to bolster Duterte's approval ratings amid political rivalries. Critics, including members of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers, pointed out the lack of necessary educational resources in public schools and questioned the need for such funding when many students lack basic textbooks. Duterte defended the request, stating that her office faced rejection from other agencies for aid due to political biases. Despite the backlash, the Senate finance committee approved the budget without cuts, although final approval still requires a vote from the Senate and the bicameral conference committee. The book, which features a story about friendship, has been criticized for its perceived self-serving motives and excessive cost for a 16-page publication.