DOJ recommends raps vs BuCor chief

An official of Department of Justice (DOJ) has recommended the filing of grave misconduct and nepotism charges against Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) director Ricardo Macala.

In a memorandum to Justice Secretary Simeon Datumanong, lawyer Teresita Domingo, head of theDOJ technical office, also recommended that pending an investigation, Macala should be placed under preventive suspension "to avoid the tampering/destruction/substitution or loss of important documents and the harassment and intimidation of witnesses who may be willing to testify."

In a phone interview yesterday, Domingo said her report and findings were immediately transmitted to the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission (PAGC), which investigates presidential appointees.

She said it is the PAGC which will conduct the formal investigation and determine "if ever a suspension is warranted."

"Everything was supported with documentary evidence," Domingo said.

In her investigation, she found out that Macala’s sons and in-laws were detailed in BuCor and have been receiving honoraria from the bureau, which is under the DOJ.

A complaint by employees also alleged that Macala demanded monthly dues and contributions from rich inmates and suppliers and other anomalies.

Domingo said that while Macala’s bank account where contributions of suppliers and inmates were deposited has been closed, this could still be verified by "issuing subpoena for the production of deposit slips."

She added that the other charges "would require examination of documents on file."

"It would be difficult, if not impossible, to do so with Director Macala still holding office," she said.

Macala has denied the allegations in a written explanation to Datumanong and questioned the anonymity of the complaints. – Nikko Dizon