Jinggoy: De Lima got P1M monthly allowance from GMA

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Jinggoy Estrada alleged on Wednesday that Justice Secretary Leila de Lima received P1 million in monthly allowance during her stint as Commission on Human Rights (CHR) chairperson.

During De Lima's first confirmation hearing at the Senate, Estrada said the Cabinet official got the additional allowance from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) under the instructions of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

De Lima, who served as CHR head during Arroyo's term, denied the allegations. She only confirmed that her agency then received "confidential" or "intelligence funds" of "various amounts"  that were sometimes given quarterly.

"There was a confidential fund allotted to the CHR. That is not an additional allowance," De Lima said during the televised hearing, adding that they would sometimes receive P500,000.

Estrada is not buying De Lima's claim.

"No, I don't believe that. You were receiving a monthly allowance of P1 million," Estrada insisted.

Estrada, however, said he does not intend to block the confirmation of De Lima's appointment.

"I do not have a grudge against her," Estrada said.

De Lima's department has filed plunder charges against Estrada and other personalities who were allegedly involved in the multibillion-peso pork barrel scam.

Estrada is a member of the powerful Commission on Appointments, which will decide on the confirmation of De Lima's appointment as justice secretary.