MANILA — Malacañang on Thursday dismissed claims that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte would divert attention from investigations into the alleged flood control scam, saying government agencies continue to pursue accountability efforts.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro pointed to ongoing probes being conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Office of the Ombudsman as proof that corruption-related investigations remain active.

“Sino naman po ang nagsabi sa kaniya na magkakaroon lang ng focus sa impeachment trial? (Who told him that there would only be a focus on the impeachment trial?)” Castro said in response to remarks made by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.

Castro said the Executive branch remains focused on governance and the implementation of government programs, adding that the impeachment proceedings are not discussed during Cabinet meetings.

“Kapag nagmi-meeting po ang Pangulo with the Cabinet secretaries, hindi po napag-uusapan ang impeachment (When the President meets with the Cabinet secretaries, the Vice President’s impeachment is not being discussed),” she said.

She also emphasized that government agencies continue to carry out their respective functions independently while the Senate performs its constitutional duty as an impeachment court.

According to Castro, investigations into alleged irregularities, including those involving flood control projects, will continue alongside other accountability measures being undertaken by the government.

“Patuloy pong nagtatrabaho ang gobyerno (The government continues to work),” Castro said, stressing that public service and anti-corruption initiatives would not be affected by ongoing political developments.