SC junks petition questioning Lacson’s appointment as rehab czar

Former Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–The Supreme Court on Tuesday has dismissed the petition questioning the legality of the appointment of former Senator Panfilo Lacson as rehabilitation czar for Yolanda ravaged areas.

During the enbanc session, the high court dismissed the petition filed by Louis Biraogo saying there was no grave abuse of discretion on the part of Malacañang in appointing Lacson.

“The Supreme Court, after considering the Comment filed by respondent [Lacson], dismissed the petition on the basis that there was no showing of grave abuse of discretion,” the high court said.

Biraogo, in his petition challenged the constitutionality of Memorandum Order No. 62 issued by President Benigno Aquino III on Dec. 6, 2013 which creates the Office that Lacson currently occupies.

Biraogo argues that MO 62 violates RA 10121, which already created National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRMMC) for carrying out post-disaster rehabilitation programs of the government.

“Hence, there is no need for the new office created by the President which respondent Lacson currently occupies,” Biraogo’s petition stated.

He further argued that MO62 effectively amends RA10121 which is a clear usurpation of legislative power of Congress.

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