Gov’t probes gold smuggling, corrupt prosecutors, spending

THE government said it is now conducting an in-depth investigation into multibillion-peso gold and jewelry smuggling involving some government officials, including state prosecutors.

Blinded by the glitter of gold, smugglers and corrupt government men in trouble. *** Taking a cue from President Duterte’s earlier disclosure that some DOJ prosecutors are involved in graft and corruption, Justice Sec. Menardo Guevarra said he will commence an internal investigation within the DOJ (Department of Justice) of those involved in gold jewelry smuggling and similar illegal activities.

Prosecutors to be prosecuted, too, he said. *** Presidential Anti-Corruption Commissioner Greco Belgica said he has recommended to President Duterte and the Office of the Ombudsman an investigattion into the smuggling of gold and jewelry at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Belgica said the President axed Justice Assistant Secretary Moslem e n M a c a r a m b o n S r. f o r a l l e g e d l y intervening on behalf of some in-laws. But there appears a bigger case of gold and jewelry smuggling going on at the NAIA that should be probed, Belgica said.

*** The Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) said four prosecutors are now under its investigation.

“The complaint will most likely be filed with the Ombudsman, but it doesn’t prevent the DOJ from conducting its own investigation through its Internal Affairs Unit,” Guevarra said.

“The Ombudsman will focus on the criminal aspect, the DOJ on the administrative aspect,” the DOJ secretary explained.

***

Newly appointed Tourism Sec. Berna Reyes Puyat said that she is now looking into excessive foreign travels of officials and other unnecessary projects at the Department of Tourism (DOT).

To cut costs and promote efficiency, she said.

*** “I will be very strict on foreign travels. Just because you are at the DOT does not mean you can travel all over the world,” Puyat stressed.

“That’s people’s money,” she warned.

***

Puyat served notice that she will implement President Duterte’s executive order issued early this year limiting the travels of public officials as part of the anti-corruption campaign.

Selective promotional travels come.

*** The new DOT secretary added she will use DOT funds wisely and increase tourist arrivals from the present 6.6 million to a higher figure.

Efficient use of funds and better programs, she said.

***

Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) head Cesar Montano said he will comply with the President and Puyat’s new directives, even for his “Buhay Carenderia” PH food-andculture promotional project.

Time for change and cost-cutting even in the field of tourism.