COA chief stands by Mendoza

MANILA, Philippines - Commission on Audit chief Ma. Gracia Pulido-Tan has stood by COA Commissioner Heidi Mendoza after she again failed to secure the nod of the Commission on Appointments (CA).

In an interview with reporters last Friday, Pulido-Tan expressed belief that Mendoza’s appointment should be confirmed by the CA, citing her competence and dedication to her job.

“From my end, I would just like to say that she has been very competent, very dedicated, very professional. She has been a great help, actually,” she said.

 The COA chief, however, said the confirmation of presidential appointees is the prerogative of the legislature in accordance with the rules.

“But on the other hand, ano ba ang matinding disgusto or objection bakit hindi siya naco-confirm (what is the strong objection that she hasn’t been confirmed)?” Pulido-Tan said.

“Then again, I am not in a position to second- guess or even make an opinion on that.”

Mendoza’s confirmation has been stalled after the CA deferred its hearing again upon the request of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada.

According to Pulido-Tan, Mendoza was never involved in auditing the Priority Development Assistance Fund of senators and congressmen covering the period of 2007 to 2009, which resulted in the filing of plunder and graft charges against lawmakers with the Office of the Ombudsman.