Partylist solons seek probe on Balikatan mess

MANILA, Philippines -- Militant partylist lawmakers on Monday asked the House of Representatives to investigate the alleged misuse of a P46-million fund for joint exercises between Filipino and American soldiers in 2007, and provide protection to a Navy lieutenant who blew the whistle on the anomaly.

Bayan Muna Representatives Satur Ocampo, Teodoro Casiño, and Neri Colmenares filed House Resolution 1159 asking the committee on good government and public accountability to investigate the allegations of Lieutenant Senior Grade Nancy Gadian.

The lawmakers said “utmost and immediate protection” should be given to Gadian and her family.

Gabriela Representatives Liza Maza and Luz Ilagan, Anakpawis Representatives Rafael Mariano and Joel Maglunsod, and Kabataan Representative Raymond Palatino filed House Resolution 1160, seeking a separate investigation by the committees on national defense and good government on the matter.

In a news conference Monday, Maza said measures should be taken to ensure the safety of Gadian and her family.