President Duterte is set to fire at least 50 more officials and employees in his continuing campaign against corruption at the Bureau of Customs.
Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said Duterte has placed several high-ranking BoC officials and employees on a floating status over alleged corruption.
“From what I gather mga 72 yata ang tatanggalin niya, or ang facing administrative charges. Ganoon karami, either 72 or 62, hindi ko na malaman eksakto,” he said.
“Basta marami. Mahigit singkwenta, less than 100… Ganoon karami ang involved sa corruption,” he added.
Panelo said their identities will be revealed at the appropriate time by the President.
“The President has directed the freezing of several high-ranking Customs officials and employees, whose names would be disclosed at the appropriate time, as they face administrative and criminal charges, for unlawful activities,” he said.
Panelo said that other officials will take over the positions which will be vacated to ensure that operations in the BoC will continue.
Duterte had earlier said that he was going to fire more people from the BoC due to their supposed corrupt practices. The President said that at least four people will be sacked.
Panelo said that Customs Commissioner Rey Guerrero is not included in the list of people who will be fired. Panelo said that Guerrero still enjoys the trust and confidence of the President.
Duterte had reiterated that he is thinking of placing the BoC under the military to curb corruption. (Argyll Geducos)