NEDA investigating complaint of sexual harassment vs official

By Elijah Joseph C. Tubayan
Reporter
THE NATIONAL Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said it is investigating a sexual harassment complaint against an official of the agency.
“NEDA acted swiftly on a sexual harassment complaint against one of its officials, even prior to the filing of a formal complaint. The NEDA Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI), which is tasked to investigate sexual harassment complaints, among others, has conducted its investigation in accordance with applicable civil service rules and will be submitting its findings following the prescribed timelines,” NEDA said in a statement on Thursday.
“The CODI has been working with the NEDA Secretary and others concerned to ensure the investigation proceeds with utmost confidentiality in adherence to pertinent laws, rules, and procedures. NEDA is committed to ensure that, in the interest of justice, the principles of due process are strictly observed,” it added.
This comes after a Philippine Daily Inquirer column on Wednesday, by journalist Rina Jimenez-David, reported an incident of sexual harassment allegedly involving a “veteran” NEDA official whose “authority…covers ‘big ticket’ projects” under the present administration.
Also according to Ms. David’s column, the official “has worked under practically all NEDA directors-general.”
The column claimed that the official, after dropping off two of the three coworkers he offered a ride to, “started fondling” the “young female colleague” who was his last passenger.
NEDA said, “As a primary advocate of the Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710), NEDA champions the protection of women’s rights and expects its officials and employees to conduct themselves to the highest standards of ethics and integrity. NEDA firmly believes that every person, regardless of gender or social status, must be treated with dignity.”
“Respect for all, especially in the workplace, is a value that our institution upholds, as reflected in the NEDA Code of Conduct. Any form of abuse or harassment — most especially sexual harassment — is not to be tolerated,” the agency added.