Tomas willing to face Ombud query

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City South Rep. Tomas Osmeña is willing to face the investigation to be conducted by the Visayas Ombudsman on the controversy surrounding his possession of two cars supposedly donated by a businessman to the Cebu City Government.

Osmeña, in a press conference at his residence, reiterated that the two Dodge sedan cars, were not donated to the city government.

“There was no donation and I don’t know how to prove it except for the fact that it is never owned by the city government,” he said.

Osmeña also said he is willing to waive his “immunity” as a congressman, although the law states that a member of the House of Representatives can enjoy parliamentary immunities, but only while in session.

Section 11, Article VI, of the Constitution provides that “no member shall be questioned nor be held liable in any other place for any speech or debate in Congress or in any committee thereof.”

Osmeña said although he can prove his innocence, the accuser has to provide the evidence, as he feels he is being subjected to a fishing expedition.

He added he is willing to play by their game and answer all the questions. He even dared his critics to sue him.

“Witch hunt me all you want. I will answer all the questions you want,” he said.

The congressman said his accuser should show a proof that the cars were donated and the only way to do it is to show deed of donation.

“All I can do is answer all the twisted allegations,” he said, adding that he can produce documents from the Land Transportation Office to prove that the cars are still in the name of his sister, Minnie, and her son, Paolo Osmeña-Jacinto.

The car that has a siren, Cebu City logo and Cebu City Police marking, was seen parked in Osmeña’s garage.

He said the other one was “either in Minnie’s house or in a shop” as it will be painted blue as specified in its registration.

Osmeña said his detractors “can have all the impressions you want, it does not change the fact” that the cars were not donated. — (FREEMAN)