Palace shrugs off criticism on gov’t cases vs Arroyo

Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang on Monday said it has yet to hear criticism against the government’s handling of cases filed against former Presidents and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

“Wala po kaming kuro-kuro hinggil diyan na taliwas doon sa pananaw na hindi maayos ang daloy ng mga kasong ito,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. told media.

(We have yet to receive opinions contrary to the belief that the cases are being properly handled.)

The statement was made days after the prosecutors in the plunder case filed against Arroyo were not able to present a witness during a trial.

The presiding judge of the Sandiganbayan First Division said the delay could be a reason for the court to grant bail to Arroyo and others charged in the alleged misuse of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office’s (PCSO) confidential and intelligence funds.

Nevertheless, Coloma said they respect the Sandiganbayan’s processes.

He also said they would have to check with the Department of Justice and its prosecutors, as well as the Office of the Ombudsman, which is an independent body.