Drive vs. illegal use of government vehicles strengthened
The Office of the Ombudsman in the Visayas has created a task force to further strengthen its campaign against illegal use of government vehicles in Western Visayas.
Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas Pelagio Apostol said the move is in line with Tanodbayan Merceditas Gutierez directive for the creation of a Task Force that will be responsible for the enforcement of the "Oplan Red Plate" in the region.
"Oplan Red Plate" is one of the anti-graft and corruption programs of the Office of the Ombudsman that aims to ensure that government vehicles are being used prudently, judiciously and efficiently, so as not to produce wastage in the government resources.
Aside from the Ombudsman, the Task Force will be composed of the representatives of other collaborating agencies such as the Commission on Audit, Land Transportation Office, Philippine National Police, Civil Service Commission and the Philippine Information Agency.
Gutierrez' order underscored President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's Administrative Order No. 239 which she signed last September 15, prohibiting all government agencies and employees from using government vehicles for purposes other than official business.
The President's order is pursuant to Republic Act No. 7638 which declared the policy of the State to ensure a continuous, adequate, reliable and economic supply of energy through the judicious conservation, renewal and efficient utilization of energy, to keep pace with the country's growth and economic development.
Apostol said member agencies of the Task Force in the region have already met and discussed related activities prior to the program's formal launching soon.
"We can save millions of pesos in government funds if we will act together in this campaign," added Apostol.(PIA)