by EJ Roque/PNA
MANILA – Malacañang on Friday confirmed that President Rodrigo R. Duterte has fired Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Alexander Balutan over corruption allegations.
“The Palace confirms that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has terminated the services of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager Alexander Balutan on his present post due to serious allegations of corruption,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo cited good governance and public accountability as the twin hallmarks of the Duterte administration.
“These are the standards that those in the government must exercise at all times and with utmost responsibility and fidelity. Those who fail to observe the same will inexorably suffer the harsh and punitive consequences,” he said.
Panelo said there will be no sacred cows in the Duterte administration.
“We hope that this will serve as a stern warning to all government officials and employees that there are no sacred cows in the current administration, especially when it comes to serving the Filipino people with integrity and loyalty. The campaign against corruption, like the war on prohibited drugs, will be relentless and continuing until the last day of the President’s term,” he said.
Balutan was previously hit with the allegedly “lavish” Christmas party of PCSO in December 2017.
