Lawmaker to verify allegations linking him to questionable NGO

MANILA, Philippines – A former lawmaker’s representative on Thursday said they will look into their archived documents amid accusations linking the legislator to a questionable non-government organization.

Testifying before the Senate, former Zamboanga Rubber Estate Corp. head Salvador Salacup on Thursday enumerated lawmakers who endorsed the use of their Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) to Pangkabuhayan Foundation, Inc.

Buhay Representative Rene Velarde, who served in the House of Representatives during the 12^th, 13^th and 14^th Congress, was among the names mentioned.

Ricky Sunico, Velarde’s former chief-of-staff, told INQUIRER.net they would have to check their old office documents before issuing a statement in response to the allegations.

“We’re in the process of revisiting the documents from the time that [former congressman Velarde] assumed office until his last term. We’re revisiting the programs,” he said.

Sunico, nevertheless, said they “believe in the integrity of the investigating bodies” and are positive that there will be a “fair result.”

Pangkabuhayan Foundation, Inc. is among the NGOs questioned in the 2007 to 2009 special Commission on Audit report on the PDAF.