MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Leila de Lima on Monday dismissed theories that Vice President Jejomar Binay could not be subjected to an investigation because he is second highest official in government.
De Lima maintained that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) cannot simply turn a "blind eye" on the gravity of accusations against Binay and his family in connection with previous projected in Makati City.
As vice president, Binay can only be removed from office through an impeachment.
"Yung sabihin na huwag ninyong imbestigahan, simply because impeachable official 'yan, wala pong ganun because there is no such thing as immunity from investigation," De Lima told reporters, as cited in a state news report.
"Hindi rin po pwede na pigilang imbestigahan ng isang ahensya na ang mandato ay precisely to investigate," she added.
She also called accusations that she only chooses to investigate and file charges against the opposition as a mere "overreaction."
Last week, De Lima ordered the NBI to track down Binay's former staff member and alleged bagman as the DOJ seeks to gather potential whistleblowers in the alleged overpricing of the Makati City Hall II parking building. - Camille Diola