President Rodrigo Duterte (Courtesy of RTVM)
QUEZON CITY, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte vowed there would be no let-ups in his anti-corruption campaign as he warned of dismissing more corrupt government officials.
In a speech during the 81st anniversary of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) on Tuesday, June 19, the Chief Executive said he doesn’t care if his administration will be criticized for it.
“There will be more dismissals to come. And I don’t care if my whole term would be characterized by a firing and dismissal of people from government. Ayaw ko talaga iyan (I really do not want it). Give the Filipino a respite from corruption,” Duterte said.
Duterte, however, admitted of having difficulty in resolving the deeply rooted corruption in the government.
“Marami talaga diyan (There’s plenty of it) until now. Hindi mo maputol maski sinong president (It will not stop regardless of who is president). Even if I have to just dwell on it only, focused on it only. Kaya (that is why) as fast as they come up, bibirahin mo talaga (you have to nip it in the bud). Wala akong patawad diyan (I am merciless when it comes to corruption). Sabi ko nga sa mga (As I have said) — even a whiff,” he added.
The President has fired at least 20 government officials accused of corruption and excessive travels since he came to power in 2016.
“Tungkol po sa katiwalian, pag proven at pumasok sa korupsyon, talaga namang sisibakin ng pangulo at kung kailangan ay fa-filan po ng charges (Regarding corruption, the president will not hesitate to fire people if proven guilty. Charges will be filed if needed.)” supported Special Assistant to the President Bong Go.
The opposition, however, is questioning Duterte’s sincerity in fulfilling his promise to get rid of corruption in the government after reappointing three of the sacked officials, including Agriculture Under Secretary Jose Gabriel “Pompee” La Vina, Housing Deputy Secretary-General Melissa Aradanas and Philippine Coconut Authority Member Manuel Serra. – Victor Cosare / Marje Pelayo
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