Robredo: Germany trip funded by Berlin-based foundation

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Leni Robredo yesterday denied accusations that she spent taxpayers’ money for her trip to Germany last week.

In her social media accounts, Robredo said her visit to Berlin was “fully financed” by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation.

“Contrary to the fake news spreading online that this was ‘paid for by the Republic of the Philippines,’ no amount was charged to the Philippine government,” she stated in her Facebook page.

“Let us be critical and vigilant against false information posted online and offline,” she said.

Robredo also shared a link about the FNF’s study tour.

Based on its website, the foundation said “these study visits are in line with the FNF’s thrust to support leaders and decision-makers by providing platforms for knowledge-sharing and dialogues with officials in Germany and other countries.”

Robredo was among the Liberal Party officials and members who joined the trip in Berlin.

Other Philippine officials who joined the trip were LP president Sen. Francis Pangilinan, Marikina City Rep. Miro Quimbo, Quezon City Rep. Jorge Banal, Dinagat Rep. Kaka Bag-ao, Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat and former budget secretary Florencio Abad.

Robredo, who chairs the LP, and her fellow officials met members of the German government and civil society organizations, for a series of discussions on governance, centered on finding sustainable solutions for poverty elimination and social justice.

Prior to her trip to Germany, Robredo also spoke before students of the London School of Economics and Political Science upon the invitation of its student organization, Development Studies Institute or DESTIN on April 6.