Lacson wants to head anti-corruption task force with ‘operational capability’

Senator Panfilo Lacson. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Panfilo Lacson said on Sunday that he would accept a Cabinet position if President Aquino would give him “operational capability” in the job.

“I have expressed my preference,  if possible, to assign me to an anti-corruption drive where I would have operational capability. Otherwise, that will be just a paper position, nothing to accomplish, so why will I go there?” said  Lacson in an interview with DZBB radio.

“We have had initial talks but these were too general. He mentioned that I could be his ‘bastonero’ or a fireman but he gave no details so it’s hard to speculate. I just heard that he would sign an EO (Executive Order) for the office,” said Lacson who was head of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force during the Estrada administration.

“I do not want to speculate because it all depends on how broad the authority and mandate will be granted to  the new office or position waiting for me, if there is indeed one.”

Lacson said he would not step on anybody’s toes if ever he got a Cabinet job.  “The only ones who will be hurt are those who belong to what Senator (Edgardo) Angara cited in his valedictory, as pockets of corruption in agencies that do not adhere to the President’s vision of “tuwid na daan” and good governance,” said Lacson.

He said the envisioned anti-corruption task force would fill a void in government.  “The government is either focused on prosecution while the Sandiganbayan handles the trial. That’s why this is challenging and interesting,” said Lacson.