MANILA, Philippines — They may have been tagged in alleged corruption, but President Duterte is giving over 50 officials and personnel of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) a chance to defend themselves before the proper forum. Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said the Chief Executive had made it clear to the BOC personnel, who were summoned to Malacañang last Thursday, that he would not tolerate corruption in the agency. “The President has been forthright in telling these Customs officials and employees that corruption has no place under his watch. He told them that, consistent with due process, they will be given their day in court,” he added in a statement issued after the meeting. He also revealed that Duterte has directed the proper agencies to file administrative charges against the erring BOC officials and staff before the Office of the Ombudsman and for the prosecution panel to push for their immediate suspension from office.

Source: Philippine Star July 19, 2019 16:02 UTC