Following serious allegations against the head of the Department of Trade and Industry’s Human Resource and Administrative Service (HRAS) Human Resource chief, the DTI on Monday said it is acknowledging the accusations being leveled against HRAS director Joel R. Cruz by certain employees of the agency’s Human Resource Administrative Service.

“As an agency committed to public trust, we are looking into all claims of misconduct and non-compliance with civil service and HR protocols with utmost seriousness,” the DTI told the DAILY TRIBUNE.

Serious allegations

A letter obtained by the DAILY TRIBUNE from a reliable source reveals serious allegations against Cruz, by DTI employees who say he is abusing his authority, blocking qualified applicants, and favoring an unqualified “preferred” employee while protecting his reported partner, Krisonne Dhel Sariol.

Further, the letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, obtained by this paper, has DTI employees describing the Human Resource as a “place of fear, not protection,” driving the employees to plead for intervention in the matter.

Swift investigation ordered

“The DTI secretary has immediately ordered a swift and thorough investigation to ascertain the facts and ensure accountability,” the DTI reply stated.

Moreover, the agency assured the public and its personnel that integrity and adherence to the highest standards of professionalism remain paramount.

“Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings, in strict accordance with relevant laws and regulations,” according to the DTI.