Wednesday, July 23, 2008 Speak Out: Release of SALs by Ombudsman By Dominico C. Moneva
THIS is a reaction to the article, “Ombud still keeps assets report under wraps” written by Karlon N. Rama (Sun.Star Cebu, July 3, 2008).
Mr. Rama mentioned the provisions of RA 3019, as amended, otherwise known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, but not RA 1379 and also the provision of RA 6713, otherwise known as Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employee.
It is not only Section 5 (e) that the Ombudsman violated (Make documents accessible to the public), but also Section 5(a) that states:
“(a) Act promptly on letters and requests – All public officials and employees shall within fifteen (15) working days from receipt thereof, respond to letters, telegrams or other means of communications sent by the public. The reply must contain the action taken on the request.”
Under Section 8 (A) of RA 6713 (Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Financial Disclosure), all public officials and employees, laborers and casual or temporary workers, are mandated to file under oath their statement of assets and liabilities (SAL) and net worth and a disclosure of business interests and financial connections.
I believe RA 6713, which was signed by President Aquino on Feb. 20, 1989, has not been amended, hence there is no need for clearance from Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez for the release to the press the Statement of Assets and Liabilities of public officials and employees.
