Ombudsman: Napoles presence in Senate probe still 'not advisable'

MANILA, Philippines - Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales won't change her opinion on the need to summon businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles in the Senate probe on the alleged pork barrel scam.

Senate President Franklin Drilon said he has received Morales' letter after seeking anew her opinion on the matter.

"I received today the letter of Ombudsman Morales on the request for me to reconsider my deference to the Ombudsman's view that it is not advisable, at this time, to allow Mrs. Napoles to testify in the Senate. In the said letter, the Ombudsman said "I am not inclined to modify said comment," Drilon said.

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has so far conducted five hearings on the multi-billion peso pork barrel scam allegedly masterminded by Napoles.

Senator Teofisto "TG" Gingona III, the committee chair, has issued a subpoena for Napoles, but only to be disapproved by Drilon.

Drilon initially sought the opinion of the Ombudsman, who said it is "not advisable" to summon Napoles since she is already facing charges in connection with the scam.

Read: Drilon: Decision on Napoles to allow Ombudsman to 'seek justice w/o delay'

Meanwhile, Senator Serge Osmeña said Drilon and Guingona should discuss the issue among themselves.

However, he doubts if Napoles will indeed spill the beans if she testifies in the Senate hearing.

"Even if we are able to call Napoles, I doubt if she will open her mouth," said Osmena.