Vice Presidential Security Commander Col. Raymund Lachica remains “attached” but “unassigned” at the Philippine Army headquarters amid proceedings on Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged misuse of confidential funds, reported RH 52 Edniel Parrosa on Tuesday.

According to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla, Lachica was relieved of his post as commander of the previously dismantled Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG).

Padilla said the military has concluded its inquiry into Lachica’s alleged involvement in corruption schemes, so that it does not duplicate the Office of the Ombudsman’s investigation, which is currently underway.

Lachica was relieved on October 4 last year, as the Ombudsman began looking into the case.

Nevertheless, as Lachica remains under the AFP’s authority, Padilla assured they are ready to present him the moment he is summoned by another constitutional body, such as the Senate Impeachment Court.

“That is the very reason he remains ‘attached, unassigned’ status sa headquarters ng Philippine Army. So in the event that he is called upon, the Armed Forces of the Philippines shows that they’re really supporting, and, of course, cooperating dito sa pag-conduct po ng investigation,” Padilla told reporters.

Lachica was mentioned multiple times during the impeachment hearing. Former Office of the Vice President (OVP) Special Disbursing Officer (SDO) Gina Acosta claimed she had handed him confidential funds in 2022, on Duterte’s orders.