Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno
MANILA, Philippines — Unless there is evidence presented that supports the allegations being thrown against Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno, he will continue to enjoy the confidence and trust of President Rodrigo Duterte.
This was the statement of Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo on the issues facing the embattled budget secretary, among which is the P51-B addition to the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways and the alleged conflict of interest in the multi-billion-peso worth of infrastructure projects in Casiguran and Sorsogon.
“Mr. Diokno is known to be the ‘Mr. No,’ meaning, he’s a man of integrity. So, when he says he is not involved, I believe it, unless you show me, as a lawyer, competent evidence,” Panelo said.
He added that the accusers should bear the burden of proof.
Nevertheless, Malacañang will still look into the allegation of House Majority Leader Rolando Andaya Jr., that 30 government infra projects worth billions of pesos went to a single contractor.
Andaya further alleged that some Cabinet members are benefactors of the said contractor.
“Since there is allegation of corruption, it follows that we have to investigate,” Panelo said. — Rosalie Coz | UNTV News & Rescue
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