Ombudsman questions delay in release of House SALNs

The Office of the Ombudsman has questioned the delay in granting investigators access to the Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALNs) of House members under probe for alleged anomalies in flood control projects.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said he does not understand the need to delay the process, particularly after the Office of the Secretary General of the House of Representatives reportedly told Ombudsman investigators that plenary approval is required before SALNs can be released.

The issue involves requests for SALNs of lawmakers allegedly linked to anomalous flood control projects that have drawn scrutiny over possible large-scale corruption.

With this development, Remulla said he plans to formally write to House Speaker Faustino Dy III to seek clarification on the procedures for obtaining SALNs of House members who are under investigation.

Remulla reiterated that he sees no legal basis for delaying the release of SALNs in the course of an ongoing investigation, stressing that such documents are essential in determining accountability in cases involving public funds.

He also raised concerns about a possible conflict of interest, noting that some personnel in the Office of the Secretary General previously worked for lawmakers who are now subjects of the investigation.

The Ombudsman said the matter must be addressed promptly to avoid any perception that the probe into the alleged flood control anomalies is being obstructed.