Respicio must prove corruption allegations – Palace

SINGAPORE – Vice Mayor Harold Respicio of Reina Mercedes, Isabela must present proof that the share of the local government in tobacco excise tax is being used for ghost projects, Malacañang said yesterday.

Palace Communications Officer Claire Castro said that Respicio, being the one who raised the issue and hurled accusations, probably has proof to support his claims. 

“There are ways to make those involved (in anomalies) accountable. If someone is accused of something, there should be evidence,” Castro said at a press briefing here.

Castro said Respicio had seemed to have arrived at a conclusion, citing a viral video showing the vice mayor accusing local officials of wrongdoings.

“If he has that kind of evidence, he should present it to the Office of the Ombudsman or the DOJ, depending on the case to be filed,” Castro said, referring to the Department of Justice.

During a session of the Sangguniang Bayan, Respicio  figured in an argument with several barangay captains including one whom he accused of pocketing funds.

The vice mayor said he does not regret his action because it triggered discussions about alleged anomalies involving the use of funds from the tobacco excise tax.

Castro said resolving corruption issues can be done without resorting to yelling, cursing or wishing death on any one. 

“It can be solved through reasonable and more humane means,” Castro said.