Napoles: Samsam not in the ‘Napolist’

CEBU, Philippines - The legal counsel of the multi-billion pork barrel scam alleged mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles has apologized for the inclusion of the name of neophyte Representative Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas Jr. in the so-called ‘Napolist’.

A press statement from the Gullas camp said that Bruce Rivera admitted he made a mistake including the name of Gullas in the initial list Napoles submitted to Justice Secretary Leila De Lima.

Gullas, who represents the first district of Cebu, expressed relief over the admission of the mistake made by the camp of Napoles.

Gullas earlier denied any involvement with Napoles’ agents after copies of the alleged “Napolist” that contained his name circulated. He said it was impossible for him to take part in the scam as he was not yet in Congress at the time.

Gullas assumed office on July 1, 2013 when there was no more Priority Development  Assistance  Fund. He said he has neither received any PDAF funds nor dealt with Napoles’ alleged agent Cheryl “Cheche” Yarra.

Accordingly, the Supreme Court issued a temporary injunction dated September 10, 2013 enjoining the disbursement and release of the funds. On November 19, 2013, the Supreme Court issued its decision declaring the PDAF unconstitutional.

“The disbursement/release of the remaining PDAF funds allocated for the year 2013, as well as for all previous years…are hereby enjoined,” the Supreme Court ruled.

Hence, no PDAF funds were disbursed to Gullas since he assumed the office of congressman for the first district of Cebu.  Gullas assured his constituents that the unfortunate incident will not affect his desire and resolve to serve them to the best of his abilities. — /BRP