Ombuds hands off pork barrel probes

CEBU, Philippines - Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas Pelagio Apostol said their office will not investigate the Priority Development Assistance Fund or pork barrel of congressmen given to the non-government organizations in other provinces.

"We will not investigate on the matter. The Commission on Audit is the proper body to investigate it," he said, adding they have no data on the issue.

Regarding three Cebu congressmen who allegedly gave their funds to Luzon-based NGOs. Apostol said Cebu congressmen can give their PDAF to NGOs based in other provinces as long as the recipient of the benefits must be Cebu.

He said under the rule, the PDAF of lawmakers must be used for their respective districts.

Reportedly, Luzon-based NGOs received PDAF funds from 6th district Rep. Luigi Quisumbing, former 5th district representative and now Danao City Vice Mayor Ramon Durano VI and former 1st district Rep. Eduardo Gullas.

The lawmakers reportedly denied that they gave their PDAF funds to non-existing organizations. They likewise denied misusing their funds.  (FREEMAN)