A youth group filed a complaint on Wednesday against Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre 2nd at the Office of the Ombudsman for breach of conduct.
The Millennials Against Dictators alleged that Aguirre violated Section 4 of Republic Act 6713 “when he repeatedly made unsubstantiated public accusations and allegations thus failing to discharge his duties with the highest degree of excellence, professionalism, intelligence and skill.”
R.A. 6713 is the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
Aguirre, the complainants said, “made unverified and misleading accusations in a highly public manner to the detriment of the reputations of those he accused. His role as Justice Secretary wields great influence on the public, especially with the proliferation of social media, thus making his statements all the more influential.”
The complaint mentioned a press conference held by Aguirre where he linked Senators Bam Aquino and Antonio
Trillanes 4th, Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano and former presidential political adviser Ronald Llamas to the Marawi siege.
The complaint also recalled Aguirre’s statement that he was told that some Korean embassy members were allegedly linked to the Korean mafia.
“His refusal to publicly apologize for his actions amount to conduct unbecoming of a public officer and clearly indicate his lack of probity, and accountability,” the complainants said.
They asked the Ombudsman to give due course to the complaint and to remove Aguirre from office.
Under the law, a public official who violates RA 6713 shall be fined an amount not exceeding his or her six months’ salary or suspension not exceeding a year, or removal from office depending on the gravity of the offense.