Hontiveros wants Aguirre to step down as Justice Secretary

Sen. Risa Hontiveros called to oust Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II from his post after a photo of the latter’s text messages with a certain “Cong. Jing” circulated, in which he asked to plot cases against the senator.

During a privilege speech, Hontiveros showed the photos and said that a photographer unintentionally captured the text messages during a senate hearing last September 5.

The senator claimed that “Cong. Jing” is Rep. Jacinto “Jing” Paras who is a member of the the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC).

In the text message of Cong Jing to Aguirre, he said that “Hontiveros was able to coach the witness. Her questions are leading questions.”
Aguirre then replied with, “That is what I’m saying here. Very obvious. That’s why let us expedite your cases against her.”

Furthermore, Hontiveros’ call for Aguirre to step down was backed by minority Senators, Franklin Drilon, Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Benigno Paulo “Bam” Aquino IV, and Leila De Lima, all from the Liberal Party (LP); and Sen. Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV.

In a statement, the senators said that “The Filipinos deserve better than a Cabinet official who resorts to spreading lies, sowing intrigue and to name-calling. We need a Secretary of Justice who will uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, integrity, and justice. Secretary Aguirre clearly does not fulfill these requirements.”

(DAILY NEWS ROUND UP FOR 09/ 12 / 17)