Duterte fires PCSO general manager

PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte has fired Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Alexander F. Balutan because of corruption allegations, Malacañang said on Friday.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador S. Panelo announced on Friday evening that Mr. Duterte “has terminated the services of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Alexander Balutan on his present post due to serious allegations of corruption.”
“Good governance and public accountability are the twin hallmarks of the Duterte administration. These are the standards that those in the government must exercise at all times and with utmost responsibility and fidelity,” Mr. Panelo also said in a statement sent to reporters via Viber.
“Those who fail to observe the same will inexorably suffer the harsh and punitive consequences,” he added.
Mr. Panelo added that the Palace hopes “this will serve as a stern warning to all government officials and employees that there are no sacred cows in the current administration, especially when it comes to serving the Filipino people with integrity and loyalty.”
He said Mr. Duterte’s campaign against corruption in government, “like the war on prohibited drugs, will be relentless and continuing until the last day of (his) term.”
“’Not during my watch!’ is the searing message of PRRD to those who wish to violate the the Constitution and the laws of the land,” the spokesman said. — Arjay L. Balinbin