Ombudsman probes ‘Bato’ for ethics breach in Vegas trip

Philippine National Police chief Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales has ordered a fact-finding investigation into the alleged travel perks granted to Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa so he could watch the bout of boxing champion and Senator Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas.

This was confirmed by Atty. Mary Rawnsle Lopez,  acting director of the Ombudsman Public Information and Media Relations Bureau.

READ: Bato: What propriety? Vegas trip was free

In a text message on Friday, Lopez said the Ombudsman has ordered the investigators of the Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices (MOLEO) in the Ombudsman to look into Dela Rosa’s possible violation of Section 7 of the Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

“The Ombudsman is conducting a fact-finding investigation regarding the alleged travel perks received by the PNP chief when he went to Las Vegas,” Lopez said when asked for confirmation.

The Ombudsman Moleo will look into Dela Rosa’s possible criminal and administrative liabilities for the acceptance of gifts, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties or in connection with any operation being regulated by, or any transaction which may be affected by the functions of their office.

“Investigation will look into possible criminal and administrative liability,” Lopez added.

The probe was sparked by Dela Rosa’s admission that he accepted a free Vegas trip for a vacation from Pacquiao as well as to watch the fight.

“Bahala na ang propriety na iyan (I don’t care about propriety). All I know is it’s free so I grabbed the opportunity,” Dela Rosa said.

“After all, we (he and Pacquiao) both came from poverty. We had this vacation and we’re really happy about it,” he added. CDG/rga