IBP offers to help Ombudsman prosecute corrupt pols

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CITY OF MALOLOS—The 66,000-strong Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has volunteered to help the Office of Ombudsman prosecute corrupt politicians by providing free manpower for its fact-finding investigations.

In a statement, Jose dela Rama Jr., Central Luzon IBP governor and former Bulacan IBP president, said the group is prepared to sign a memorandum of agreement with Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales.

De la Rama said they made the offer following reports that the Ombudsman has been overwhelmed by complaints against incumbent officials.

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IBP National President Rosario Setias-Reyes likewise said in the statement that the group is prepared to work on 1,092 complaints filed last year against local officials and 600 complaints faced by policemen.
Reyes said their offer also responds to an appeal made earlier by Chief Justice Lourdes Sereno to help in the government’s fight against corruption. RAM

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