Ombudsman-Visayas mark 2ndyear in Iloilo, vows continued battle vs corruption
Government graftbusters in the Iloilo extension office of the Ombudsman in the Visayas marked its second year of operations and existence.
As such, Ombudsman officials, graft investigators and 'civil-society' partners came in full force. Yesterday's celebration was highlighted by yet more assurances of continued 'graftbusting' action here. In fact, the Iloilo extension office will see much-needed increase of personnel in the coming year.
This, Environmental Ombudsman Mark Jalandoni said in a message to the group while saying that his visit was one "of nostalgia and gratitude." Ombudsman Jalandoni also gave credit to private partners in the government's fight against corruption.
"Let us continue to cultivate this relationship...carry on the fight and keep up the fight for all of us," he said.
Similar sentiments from Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas, Pelagio Apostol.
"I want a marked improvement on the anti-corruption campaign during my term of office....something that can be felt and seen by the people and the community," Apostol said in his message.
Said Deputy Ombudsman also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Iloilo office staff saying they may be overwhelmed but winning the war nevertheless.
Assistant Ombudsman for the Visayas Virginia Santiago for her part assured of more Ombudsman action.
"If we will stop, who will do it?," she said.
This year's Ombudsman theme is "Enduring the fight against corruption, amidst the national crisis." Regional directors were present and recognized by the anti-graft body as partners and "Protectors of the People." Among those seen were Director Janet Oberio of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and Director Mario Sison of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Director Gerard Camina of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Director Rolando Asis of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) also graced the occasion.
The News Today (TNT) was also one of the media awardees with the award received by Erly Garcia, TNT editor.