Puno rules out DILG probe of Sahidulla for 'goodwill money'

MANILA, Philippines – Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno ruled out yesterday any criminal and administrative investigation of Sulu Vice Gov. Nur-Ana “Lady Ann” Sahidulla for admitting giving money to the Abu Sayyaf while negotiating for the release of Red Cross worker Eugenio Vagni last Sunday.

“I have not issued any authority to investigate Vice Governor Sahidulla,” Puno told a news forum in Quezon City.

Although the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Ombudsman are conducting their own investigation into the reports, Puno stressed the Department of the Interior and Local Government still has administrative jurisdiction and control over local officials, including Sahidulla.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro had called on the DOJ to initiate the probe on the Sulu vice governor.

Sahidulla admitted giving P50,000 to the Abu Sayyaf gunmen holding Vagni hostage before the Italian was released to her custody.

Sahidulla told a press briefing at Villamor Airbase in Pasay City that she gave “cigarette money” to the gunmen as a token of appreciation and “goodwill.”

Sahidulla though maintained that no ransom was paid in exchange for the release of Vagni.

Teodoro, however, insisted that Sahidulla should be made to explain her action of giving money to the bandits.

Teodoro reiterated Sahidulla should be investigated for violating the government’s no ransom policy, whatever amount or “consideration” was given to the bandits.

Sen. Richard Gordon also slammed Sahidulla for giving “cigarette money” to the Abu Sayyaf gunmen.

Puno, however, defended Sahidulla for the role she played in Vagni’s release. He said Sahidulla should be commended.

Puno bumped into Sahidulla and lawyer Lorna Kapunan while on his way to attend the news forum at the Sulo hotel yesterday.

Sahidulla narrated to Puno the events that led to the release of Vagni in Indanan, Sulu last Sunday.

“They (Abu Sayyaf) were aiming their guns (at me) but I was not afraid,” she told Puno.

During the chance meeting, Puno assured Sahidulla that she would not be investigated by the DILG.

Puno stressed the DILG has other pressing concerns in keeping the peace in Sulu.