By ARGYLL CYRUS B. GEDUCOS
President Duterte is set to fire another government official for corruption next week.
Duterte, in a speech during the inauguration of the Davao River Bridge Widening Project in Davao City Thursday, warned government officials anew not to engage in corruption and deal with his relatives or face termination.
“That has always been my warning and so sali lahat. I might fire another one pagbalik ko sa Malacañang,” he said.
Duterte did not identify or hinted who the official is.
“Sinabi ko lang kanila makikiusap ako huwag, do not, kasi ayaw ko talaga – and even a whisper,” he added.
Duterte has fired several government officials, the latest of whom was Transportation Assistant Secretary Mark Tolentino this week for talking to the President’s sister about the proposed Mindanao railway project.
“And even the discussion of that Mindanao railway, it’s still in the blueprint. But the fact that itong Assistant Secretary talked it over with my sister, even if just a conversation. Lumayo talaga kayo because sabi ko ‘pag nalaman ko, tapos. Alis ka talaga,” he said.
“Do not talk to anybody especially my family, my wife, my daughter, my sons, or any relatives of mine, kapatid, huwag kang pumayag na makiusap sa inyo,” he added.
Duterte said that it was unfortunate that most of the appointees he fired were his friends involved in corruption.
“Sadly lahat ‘yung halos karamihan were my appointees and my friends and who were with me during the mayorship days,” he lamented.
Last week, Duterte said that he may fire five government officials but refused to name them.
