Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III and Justice Secretary Leila De Lima. FILE PHOTOS
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III on Monday promised to back Justice Secretary Leila De Lima’s confirmation at the powerful Commission on Appointments (CA) after her swift action against prison officials and guards over the alleged special treatment being given to high-profile inmates.
Sotto commended De Lima for her immediate action of relieving the 12 prison guards who were found responsible for the New Bilibid Prison irregularity that involved big-time drug dealers.
“Her quick action on the incident should serve as example for all public officials and public servants to emulate,” he said in a statement.
The senator said that if all government officials will be as resolute and decisive as Secretary De Lima, then there is no longer need for the Senate to conduct inquiries or investigations.
“It is all a matter of implementing the rules, regulations and the law, with upholding public interest as the overriding principle,” Sotto said.
He said the hard work put up by law enforcers for the arrest of these lawless elements were put to waste by erring authorities who gave special treatment to the prisoners.
“Sometimes, they even put their life on the line to protect our citizens from these criminals. Yet, these plagues in our society are given special treatment by erring prison guards, most likely in exchange for financial considerations.”
“These illegal drug dealers are the worst cancer in our society, for they not only destroy lives but also families, communities and the entire nation as well. Thus anyone who abets, helps, and gives preferential treatment to these drug dealers should suffer the consequences,” the senator added.
A long-time advocate against illegal drugs, Sotto gave his full backing to De Lima’s move to relieve the 12 prison guards.
“With all these, she has my vote in the Commission on Appointments,” he said.
De Lima failed to get the confirmation of the CA when she first appeared before it last week.
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