PACC chief faces complaints over alleged lack of action against local officials linked to drugs, corruption

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 6) — A Basilan doctor has filed complaints against Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission chief Greco Belgica — accusing the official of lack of action on the alleged involvement of two local officials in graft and corruption and illegal drug trade.

On Wednesday, Dr. Chao-Tiao Yumol filed complaints of grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, violation of Section 4 of Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, and violation of Section 3e of Republic Act No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act at the Office of the Ombudsman.

Based on his affidavit, Yumol reported the alleged illegal acts of Lamitan City Mayor Rosita Furigay and Vice Mayor Roderick Furigay to the PACC in 2019.

Yumol said Belgica found the complaint "so glaring" based on the documents presented.

However, Belgica dismissed the complaint in August, saying if Yumol indeed has evidence against the Furigays, he should simply file a case since the PACC has no jurisdiction on elected officials.

Another complaint was filed against the same officials at the PACC, but was also dismissed for the same reason.

The PACC is mandated to assist the president in investigating graft and corruption against all presidential appointees, and to conduct lifestyle checks and fact-finding inquiries on presidential employees who may have violated the law.

On December 28, President Rodrigo Duterte revealed names of lawmakers who were on the PACC's list of officials allegedly involved in corruption related to infrastructure projects, despite lack of "hard evidence."