MAYOR LIM SLAMS IIRC'S CRIMINAL, ADMIN CHARGES: I WILL FINISH MY TERM
MANILA, OCTOBER 12, 2010 (STAR) By Sandy Araneta - Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim hit back yesterday at the incident investigation and review committee (IIRC) for recommending that he face criminal and administrative charges as head of the city's crisis management team.
Speaking during yesterday's flag-raising ceremony at City Hall, Lim said he was taught at the US Federal Bureau of Investigation that a mayor or a president should not meddle in a hostage negotiation.
"I can accept President Aquino's order of an investigation," he said in Filipino. "But I cannot accept the findings of the IIRC because they recommended that many be included. They blame me for not going to Luneta early on. A mayor shouldn't meddle in that situation. They're crazy."
Whatever happens, he would finish his term as Manila mayor, Lim vowed.
Vice Mayor Francisco Moreno said IIRC head Justice Secretary Leila de Lima got it all wrong.
"De Lima was wrong," he said. "The Malacañang review is now on my side."
Moreno said he "wholeheartedly" submitted himself to the IIRC to establish what transpired during the hostage crisis.
Unfortunately, the IIRC came out with a different view on his participation, he added.
Moreno said he will stand by the side of Mayor Lim, who will be administratively charged for his alleged inaction in the hostage crisis.
"I will support him," he said. "I will be with him in my own little way."
Moreno was also upset at the IIRC for finding him liable in the mishandling of the Aug. 23 hostage crisis. He said his wife and four young children have been adversely affected.
"They were confused because they learned that I am being punished for risking my life, and helping save the lives of other people, for doing my lawful duty," he said.
Moreno feels vindicated that Malacañang has not recommended him to be charged.
"This only shows that I did nothing wrong," he said.
On the other hand, retired Philippine National Police chief Jesus Verzosa reacted yesterday after Malacañang absolved him of liability in the hostage crisis.
Calling himself "Citizen Jess," Verzosa said: "It's welcome news and a judicious termination of a controversial case. It is time to move on and face the greater task ahead of nation building. Meantime, I urge the PNP to remain steadfast in its mission to serve and protect the people."
Senate to continue probe on Aug. 23 hostage crisis
Sen. Gregorio Honasan has decided to continue the Senate investigation on the Aug. 23 hostage crisis to enable senators to craft a law or introduce amendments to present laws involving the handling of similar situations.
Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile has left it to Honasan, chair of the Senate committees on public order and illegal drugs, and on public information and mass media, whether to continue the investigation.
He respects Malacañang's decision to review the IIRC report, Honasan said.
Robredo, Puno to work as one
Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo and Undersecretary Rico Puno have finally decided to work as one on instructions of President Aquino.
A source said Robredo and Puno are reportedly set to issue a joint statement today on the IIRC report.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Robredo confirmed that Mr. Aquino discussed with him and Puno the other night several matters pertaining to the operations of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
Robredo said Mr. Aquino gave him some instructions on how to speed up the delivery of basic services to the people.
The transfer of some ranking DILG officials was also tackled during the meeting, he added.
Reports said either Robredo or Puno might leave the department due to conflict between them.
Mr. Aquino said he will give the two another chance to perform and achieve what is expected of them.
Santiago to follow Aquino's decision
Metro Manila police commander Director Leocadio Santiago said he would strictly abide by his commander-in-chief's decision.
"I will subject myself to the decision (of the President)" he said.
In an interview, Santiago said he is "in the uniform service and whatever President Aquino's decision would be accepted by me." - With Christina Mendez, Cecille Suerte Felipe, Non Alquitran
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