ERC chief goes on one-month leave

MANILA, Philippines - Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) chairman Jose Vicente Salazar said yesterday he was going on a one-month break, giving in to calls to take a leave until the investigation on the alleged corruption in the agency is finished.

In a statement, Salazar announced his one-month leave was effective immediately.

“I have taken this step in order to focus on helping in the ongoing and planned inquiries regarding issues related to the Energy Regulatory Commission, particularly those allegedly raised by the late director, Francisco Jose ‘Jun’ Villa Jr., prior to his recent death,” he said.

In the meantime, Commissioner Geronimo Sta. Ana will be the officer-in-charge.

Last week, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said it would be best for Salazar to take a leave pending the completion of an investigation.

The energy chief said the National Bureau of Investigation has been tapped to conduct a probe on the death of ERC director Villa last month.

By taking a break, Salazar hopes that the investigation will be concluded sooner.

“I believe that by focusing on this concern, the inquiries can be brought to a speedier and fitting conclusion. This is in the best interest of the ERC. The faster the facts can be brought out in the open, the sooner we can put the matter to rest,” he said.

Villa committed suicide last Nov. 9 reportedly due to pressure from superiors to enter into irregular transactions.