Luciano not yet ‘off the hook’

Thursday, February 2, 2012

CLARK FREEPORT – Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president Victor Jose Luciano is not off the hook on the cable theft case inside the aviation complex, said CIAC vice president Reynaldo Catacutan.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-Office of the Transportation Security (CAAP OTS) earlier cleared Luciano of the case.

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But Catacutan said CAAP OTS is in no position to declare the innocence or guilt of Luciano, adding that its findings only pertain to safety and security.

Catacutan said the findings did not touch on the administrative and criminal aspect of the case.

A CAAP OTS team conducted ocular inspection for one day to find out whether the safety and security aspect of all incoming and outgoing flights are uncompromised, he said.

Catacutan added that the clearing of Luciano’s name rests with the CIAC board investigation committee.

“After due process where witnesses from both sides are called, only then that we can say that Luciano is cleared or not,” Catacuatan added.

Luciano has reported to work after going on a 90-day voluntary leave of absence, following allegations of his involvement in the said cable theft case.

Catacutan questioned Luciano’s returning to office, citing the non-confirmation of the CIAC Board, which is among the requirements before a corporate government official can resume office.

“He (Luciano) should get a confirmation from the board first because his leave [of absence] was confirmed by the board,” Catacutan said.

But Luciano said there is no need for him to secure a confirmation from the CIAC board because his leave is voluntary in nature.