By Sen. Risa Hontiveros

The Office of the Ombudsman has validated our Senate findings that the evidence of guilt is strong. Nagpapasalamat tayo sa (I am thankful to the) Ombudsman for being true to its mandate to run after those who commit wrongdoing.

My hope is that the investigation will also look into the masterminds behind this modus, well beyond the foot soldiers and mid-level officials. Although the Ombudsman order only covers the Covid-19 test kits, we look forward to an investigation of the PPE (personal protective equipment) and other overpriced procurement.

I am sure the COA (Commission on Audit) special audit will paint an even fuller picture. Any and all ill-gotten profit made from taxpayers’ money should eventually be seized and turned back over to the government where it belongs.

Sa panahon ng pandemya, pinagkakitaan ang biniling kagamitan na sana ay panlaban dito. Sa panahon ng Covid-19 kung saan marami ang namatay, marami ang naghirap, pinagnakawan pa ang kaban ng bayan.

(In the time of the pandemic, they earned from the purchased equipment that was supposed to fight against it. In the time of Covid-19 during which many died, many suffered, the public treasury was even robbed.)

Let justice be served. This investigation is just the beginning.