Ombuds may prioritize case vs. Mike

CEBU, Philippines - Assistant Deputy Ombudsman Virginia Palanca-Santiago did not confirm yesterday if the case filed against Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama has been received by their office but assured they will prioritize high-profile cases.

But, sources said it was received by the Office of the Ombudsman yesterday.

Santiago said normally if there are cases filed before their office it will be received by the officer of the day then passed through her for evaluation.

She said after evaluation it will be returned back to the record section to be docketed and it will be raffled to the assigned investigator.

Santiago said the new Ombudsman Conchita Carpio directed them to act on the high-profile cases immediately.

“If these involved big amount of money, if it caught the attention of media and high ranking officials we will act on it immediately,” she said.

Santiago cited provision from the Ombudsman Section 15 of Republic Act 6770 “the Ombudsman shall give priority to complaints filed against high-ranking government officials and/or those occupying supervisory positions, complaints involving grave offenses as well as complaints involving large sums of money and/or properties.”

Cebu City south district Rep. Tomas Osmeña asked the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas to investigate Rama for his refusal to cooperate in the deliberation of the proposed P11.8 billion budget for 2012 and insisting Assistant City Treasurer Emma Villarete, instead of Acting City Treasurer Tessie Camarillo, defend the proposed budget before the City Council.

Pending investigation, Osmeña asked for the suspension of Rama.

Rama however, said he is willing to face the charges.  (FREEMAN)