50 government execs being probed for corruption

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — At least 50 government officials are being investigated by the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) for alleged involvement in graft and corruption while in office.

“Presently, PACC is investigating and preparing a report against 50 to 80 officials allegedly involved in corruption,” said Christopher Go, President Duterte’s special assistant.

He added that his office is working with PACC Commissioner Greco Belgica to establish the Truth and Justice Coalition, a nationwide organization made up of representatives and volunteers from key sectors, to support the government’s fight against corruption.

“(We) have been working together in apprehending corrupt officials and in submitting to the President concrete evidence that have led to the resignation and filing of cases against low, medium and even high ranking officials,” Go said.

The coalition, he added, will help authorities in conducting “fact finding inquiries, lifestyle checks and other investigations as well as propose systemic change to policy reforms.”

Go said they would also work with the Department of Justice to provide “witness protection,” National Bureau of Investigation to conduct “reliable investigations” and Bureau of Internal Revenue “to ensure full compliance” with the law.

The coalition is also exploring an “Informant’s Reward System” to give incentives to responsible citizens who would come forward against those who are “stealing people’s money.”

Go said he concurs with former Civil Service Commission and Presidential Management Staff head Ricardo Saludo who suggested in his newspaper column the creation of a citizens’ coalition for good governance.

He added it is important for private individuals to be involved in the fight against graft and corruption to rid the government of corrupt officials.