Photo credit: Congress PH

What happens when a name that sounds like a mix of your favorite snack and a popular restaurant ends up in government documents? In the case of “Mary Grace Piattos,” it sparks not just laughter but also a serious investigation into alleged misuse of government funds.

In a press conference on Monday, Zambales Representative Jay Khonghun and Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V announced a P1-million reward for anyone who can provide information about “Mary Grace Piattos.” The mysterious name popped up in suspicious liquidation documents linked to the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in government funds
during Vice President Sara Duterte’s tenure.

A Call for Accountability

“Kami sa Blue Ribbon Committee at Quad Committee, aming binibigyan ng importansya na kailangan dumating ‘yung mga ipinatawag natin,” Khonghun shared during the press briefing. He explained that the investigation aims to ensure accountability for funds that were spent unusually fast—P125 million in just 11 days.

To put that in perspective, Khonghun quipped, “Kung si Napoles, 60 days niya nagastos ‘yung pondo, ito 11 days lang.” This comparison to the infamous pork barrel scam has added urgency to the investigation.

Why “Mary Grace Piattos”?

The name “Mary Grace Piattos” has become a symbol of potential irregularities. Khonghun revealed that this name appeared in acknowledgment receipts allegedly tied to the liquidation of confidential funds in December 2022.

If Mary Grace Piattos is a fictitious character, lawmakers argue that other names in the liquidation reports might also be made up.

Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V couldn’t resist adding a touch of humor: “Isama mo na rin si Chippy McDonald,” referencing other suspicious names while urging those involved to attend hearings and explain the irregularities.

The Bigger Picture

This isn’t just about one name—it’s about ensuring public funds are spent properly. Lawmakers have flagged possible irregularities in the receipts, including repetitive handwriting and expenses listed for November 2022, even though the funds were only disbursed in December.

1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez called the receipts “spurious and bogus,” highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability.

A Bounty to Solve the Mystery

With the P1-million bounty, the Blue Ribbon Committee hopes someone will come forward with answers. “Kung sino ang makakapagturo kung sino ang makakatukoy ng pagkatao ni Mary Grace Piattos, matutulungan tayo na maiharap siya sa hearing,” Khonghun said.