THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said Thursday it would render full cooperation in the ongoing investigation into alleged involvement of its officials in irregularities.
The CHR said that it has yet to receive a copy of the graft complaint filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) against CHR Chairman Richard Palpal-latoc and three other officials before the Office of the Ombudsman, over alleged irregularities in the processing and payment of travel-related claims concerning a donor-funded training abroad.
“At this time, the CHR has not received any formal complaint concerning the allegations. Nevertheless, the commission recognizes the importance of establishing the facts through appropriate processes, consistent with applicable government accounting and auditing rules and the requirements of due process,” CHR spokesman Beda Epres said.
In the complaint, it was said that Palpal-latoc attended the 54th International Institute of Human Rights Summer School 2025, a monthlong program whose airfare, accommodation, meals and subsistence expenses were “fully funded by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom.” Despite this, the NBI alleged that the CHR chief still claimed daily subsistence allowance and representation expenses during the same period.
The other three respondents in the complaint are Russel Mani, who allegedly certified the completeness of the supporting documents; Maria Teresa Dolor, who allegedly certified the fund availability; and Onesimo Cuyco, the approving officer who authorized payment.
