Ombudsman won’t give copies of raps vs Napoles, senators

Janet Napoles. PHOTO courtesy of PNP-PIO and PNP-SAF photographers

MANILA, Philippines- The Office of the Ombudsman will not give copies of complaint that will be filed against Janet Lim-Napoles and the other lawmakers linked to the billion peso pork barrel scam.

“The office regrets that copies of the complaint and other case records could not be provided at this time,” the ombudsman’s office said in a statement Monday.

“Requests for interview regarding the merits of the case could not be likewise granted,” it added.

It said that it does not want to appear partial or have a prejudgement of the case.

“It finds it prudent not to discuss the merits of the case at this stage, to avoid any appearance of partiality or pre-judgement and in keeping with the confidentiality of proceedings,” it said.

“Statements or information that may be prematurely disclosed could unduly prejudice the proceedings insofar as alerting the custodians of vital documents and undermining the security of possible witnesses,” it added.

The office of the Ombudsman further said that it would only give out details of the proceedings after it has reached a final resolution.

“Details about the results of the proceedings shall be released once a final resolution is issued, at which time a copy of the resolution may be secured,” it said.