The Palace insisted that President Rodrigo R. Duterte has a basis for not naming congressmen allegedly involved in corruption and have been receiving “kickbacks” from projects.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque explained that the matter is “evidentiary” and that it is better for the Ombudsman to investigate since all government workers are under its jurisdiction.
President Duterte stated in his weekly address that the solons are not part of the executive’s jurisdiction due to the separation of powers. He pointed out that if he cannot investigate them, he has no authority to release their names. – Report from Mela Lesmoras
