Dilaab opposes presumed dismissal of lamppost scam

CEBU - The Dilaab Foundation, Inc. urges the public to stand and voice out their opposition to the presumed dismissal of the Asean lamppost scam as the central office of the Ombudsman decided to return the documents to the Visayas Ombudsman due to alleged lack of evidences.

Dilaab overall coordinating steward Fr. Carmelo Diola said they view with gravest apprehension and concern reports that say the lamppost scam will likely be dismissed and that liable officials will just get away with it.

With lots of issues that Dilaab is concerned with right now, Dilaab president Gladys Ceniza said they think the lamppost scam is an urgent issue they need to address.

Ceniza said the case has obvious evidences that there was indeed an overpricing violation by the officials who were in-charge of purchasing and installing the lampposts that were used as street decors during the 12th Asean summit here.

Ceniza stressed the question on how one lamppost could cost P224,000 while the regular price is P11,750 as based on importation documents according to Dilaab’s researched data.

Diola said the cost of each lamppost is already equivalent to three Gawad Kalinga houses which could have helped the homeless. He doubts if transportation and installation costs justify the twenty-fold increase of the lamppost from P11,750 which is the actual production cost.

Diola said if these things could not be justified, “the Ombudsman should consider stepping down to make room for others who have the courage and competence to serve the best interest of the public.”

Ceniza said that if the Ombudsman could not solve this case that is clearly punishable, how much more if there will be bigger cases that require tough decisions and critical analyses wherein the interest of the general public is concerned.

Ceniza said they only want the government to be aware that the people are watching them closely on this case. Dilaab will be doing the necessary actions just to make corrupt officials pay for their ridiculous behavior.

“As a movement, we will not bring cases of corruption outside of our judicial system,” Ceniza said.

She added that they are not accusing the officials of being inefficient on their job, but they are actually offering their help for the solution of the case.

Ceniza said they are willing to send volunteers to help in the case. They can send lawyers and researchers who will help gather the documents needed. She said they will still follow the rules and their moves would be in peaceful means.

Diola also asked public officials to do their duty to both God and country by letting the truth prevail and saving the people from corruption that destroys the society.

“When Jesus called on people to give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s, he meant God’s sphere is the ultimate one. True vindication comes from standing in the truth and serving with honor,” Diola said.

They might launch another signature campaign like what has been done last February 2008 where 30,000 citizens have signed to show vigilance, Ceniza said. — Jessica Ann Pareja/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)