Nartatez orders audit of PNP unitsEscudero backs PBBM call for lifestyle check among gov’t officials

Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero (File Photo: Chiz Escudero/Facebook)

By Wilnard Bacelonia, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – Senate President Francis Escudero on Wednesday expressed full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to conduct lifestyle checks on public officials, citing clear constitutional and legal bases for the move.

Escudero said Article XI, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution mandates public officials to remain accountable to the people, serve with integrity, and lead modest lives.

He also referred to Section 8 of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which allows dismissal of public officials for unexplained wealth, and Section 4(h) of Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, which prohibits extravagant displays of wealth.

“These provisions affirm that public office is a public trust. Public servants must at all times be accountable and modest in their way of life,” Escudero said in a Viber message to reporters.

He urged the administration to also consider legislative proposals he has filed to reinforce the fight against corruption.

These include Senate Bill No. 232, which would require government officials and employees to execute a waiver allowing the examination of their bank deposits and investments, thereby relaxing the Bank Secrecy Law, and Senate Bill No. 783, which seeks to disqualify relatives of public officials within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity and affinity from entering into government contracts.

Escudero said these reforms complement the President’s initiative and would institutionalize stronger safeguards against graft.

Marcos has ordered lifestyle checks on all government officials as part of the administration’s probe into anomalous flood control projects.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the review will begin with officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Marcos also directed a thorough examination of DPWH records to ensure accountability in ongoing investigations.