Legislators divided on Robredo’s fate

Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Lawmakers are divided on whether Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo should be replaced in the looming Cabinet revamp.

Muntinlupa Rep. Rodolfo Biazon said that as chief of the Department of Interior and Local Government, Robredo should bear most of the responsibility for the rise in crime and illegal numbers games.

“The DILG chief has control over local government officials and the Philippine National Police. He has great powers as well as great responsibility.  He should take credit or blame for whatever happens under his watch,” said Biazon.

But Biazon declined to comment on whether Robredo should be replaced amid rumors that Sen. Panfilo Lacson, whose term expires next year, was being groomed as his successor.

ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio said that Robredo should be kicked out of office for PNP’s failure to arrest former party-list representative and retired Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan.

“His most glaring failure has been his inability to arrest retired general Jovito Palparan thereby perpetuating the impunity which encourages the continuing violation of human rights under the Aquino administration,” Tinio said.