President Duterte: No To Corruption!

President Duterte has reminded his Cabinet members to ensure that his administration would not be tainted with corruption or they would be answerable to him for their deeds.

Duterte gave the reminder during a 3 hour meeting with his designated officials at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, incoming agriculture secretary Emmanuel Piñol said.

“We were told by the president that there should be no corruption, make sure there is no corruption. (He said) nobody from my family will interfere with your work, I’m giving you a free hand on the people you choose,” Piñol told reporters

“But you are answerable to me for your misdeeds and for the people you have chosen,” he quoted Duterte as saying.

“We are accountable for every misstep we make. It was a very clear statement,” Piñol added.

It remains unclear what Duterte would do in the event his officials are found to be involved in corruption. Piñol, however, believes that Duterte would not hesitate to remove those who are guilty of wrongdoing.

 “The president would relieve the entire department and city hall if one commits a wrongdoing. I think that’s still the same mindset,” the incoming agriculture chief said. “Nobody is indispensable. There are no (sacred) cows.”

Piñol said Duterte was serious but in a light mood when he presided over the meeting.

“We are upbeat. We are happy. The president was very happy,” he said.