Probe on judiciary’s fund may lead to repeal of law

Supreme Court of the Philippines. Photo by Mike Gonzales courtesy of Wiki Commons.

MANILA — A lawmaker said yesterday that the looming probe on the Judiciary Development Fund (JDF) may lead to the amendment of the law that created it.

“The pork barrel fund was declared unconstitutional (by the Supreme Court) and yet the power to allocate lies with Congress, but this (JDF) is concentrated with the judiciary, and we have not been able to closely monitor its disbursement,” Iloilo Rep. Neil Tupas said.

Tupas, chairman of the House justice committee also mentioned that as they investigate the judicial funds, they may have to look into the need to amend or repeal Presidential Decree No. 1949.

“There are irregularities being reported and complaints as well,” he said.

He also said that no matter what may come out of the investigation, the SC should abide by it.

“If you amend it, of course, the law will change and everybody should follow. The Supreme Court should follow the law,” Tupas said.