NEDA official under investigation for alleged sexual harassment

MANILA, Philippines — The National Economic and Development Authority on Thursday said it swiftly acted on a sexual harassment complaint against one of its officials and stressed that any form of abuse “is not to be tolerated.”

In a statement, the country’s socioeconomic planning agency said it had started looking into the case “even prior to the filing of a formal complaint.”

NEDA did not disclose the name of the official accused of sexual harassment and of the complainant.

“The NEDA Committee on Decorum and Investigation, which is tasked to investigate sexual harassment complaints, among others, has conducted its investigation in accordance with applicable civil service rules and will be submitting its findings following the prescribed timelines,” the agency said.

“The CODI has been working with the NEDA Secretary and others concerned to ensure the investigation proceeds with utmost confidentiality in adherence to pertinent laws, rules, and procedures,” it added.

“NEDA is committed to ensure that, in the interest of justice, the principles of due process are strictly observed.” — Ian Nicolas Cigaral