DOJ prosecutor tagged in extortion suspended

MANILA, Philippines - The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the suspension of a prosecutor of the Department of Justice (DOJ) earlier arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for allegedly extorting P2.4 million from members of the Philippine Airlines Employees Association (PALEA).

In a five-page order, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales placed Assistant State Prosecutor Diosdado Solidum Jr. under preventive suspension for six months without pay.

The anti-graft office said initial investigation and evidence pointed to the guilt of Solidum

“There is also enough basis to conclude that his continued stay in office may prejudice the just, fair and independent disposition of the present case,” the order read.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima has directed Prosecutor General Claro Arellano to immediately implement the ombudsman’s directive.

Solidum is accused of violating Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. 

He was also charged with direct bribery before the Sandiganbayan.

Solidum was arrested by NBI agents in an entrapment operation last August in Quezon City.

He allegedly attempted to extort P2.4 million from 241 PALEA members in exchange for dropping a complaint involving a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation against them, which he had been tasked to review.

The PALEA members filed an administrative complaint against Solidum before the DOJ.