Ombudsman orders probe of chopper deal in 7 days

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales. INQUIRER file photo

MANILA, Philippines – Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales has ordered an investigation into the case against former First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo for the allegedly irregular sale of second-hand helicopters to the Philippine National Police and formed a team that was expected to finish its task in seven days.

“I thought a new team must proceed to investigate the case, taking into consideration the result of investigation by the Senate blue ribbon committee,”said Morales, a day after the senators, led by Teofisto Guingona, chairman of the blue ribbon committee, submitted their recommendations to her office following an investigation into the alleged anomalous transaction.

Morales said the team was given seven days to finish its task, after which its findings would be presented to her for consideration.

She said that since the Senate report was detailed, it would lighten the agency’s burden.