
MANILA – Malacañang said on Thursday that President Rodrigo Duterte would not turn a blind eye to corruption, especially when there is compelling evidence against a public official.
This comes after Senator Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao warned Duterte on Wednesday not to defend government officials involved in irregularities.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque stated in an online press briefing that Duterte never allowed anybody in government, even his buddies, who were found to be involved in corrupt activities.
According to Roque, Duterte simply wants to ensure that there is substantial proof against the allegedly wrongdoing government officials.
“So, I have personal knowledge na kapag meron naman po talagang datos at katotohanan sa mga paratang ng korapsyon, ang Presidente, hindi po pinipikit ang kaniyang mga mata (that if corruption claims are backed by data and facts, the President does not shut his eyes),” Roque said.
Pacquiao said on Wednesday that Duterte should not be “too defensive” when it comes to corrupt government officials.
Pacquiao’s remarks came after Duterte repeatedly defended embattled Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, who has been under criticism for allegedly mismanaging coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic response funds.
No one in the government has received preferential treatment from Duterte, Roque said.
According to Roque, Duterte’s firing spree of corrupt government officials, even those close to him, demonstrates his strong commitment to fighting corruption.
“Wala kay Presidente kung malapit ka sa kanya eh (It does not matter to the President if you are close to him),” Roque said.
However, Roque stated that Duque’s case is unique because there is no evidence that the DOH chief is corrupt.
Duterte previously stated that he would not order Duque to quit, but that he would respect his wishes if he chooses to do so.
On Monday, Duterte defended his Cabinet members, claiming that they are appropriately spending public funds.