Rosebud renews appeal of reinstatement in WPP

Mary “Rosebud” Ong. INQUIRER file photo

Whistle-blower Mary “Rosebud” Ong has renewed her appeal to Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to reinstate her in the government’s Witness Protection Program (WPP).

Ong also expressed disappointment with the Aquino government for its alleged failure to protect whistle-blowers like her.

“P-Noy (Aquino) knows it was a lonely fight. I am hoping that government, whoever is the President, should spare witnesses from political compromises. We are not for sale. We can’t be made to be their collateral damage,” Ong said.

Ong had been formally told by De Lima that she only has until October 1 under the custody of the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines following the military’s assessment that there were no longer threats against her.

Ong, an antinarcotics civilian agent, turned state witness against Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson. Nikko Dizon