A former judge turned into a top official of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) is now under investigation by the Supreme Court, according to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla.
According to the report of RH Boy Gonzales in DZRH Public Service Hour, the investigation was prompted by revelations from whistleblower Julie Patidongan or alyas “Totoy,” who identified the former judge as a money fixer allegedly working on behalf of business tycoon operator Charlie “Atong” Ang.
“Actually, iniimbestigahan na ng Supreme Court,” Remulla confirmed in a media interview.
Moreover, Remulla said that the SC has expanded its investigation to include other members of the judiciary suspected of being involved in the high-profile case of the ‘missing sabungeros’ or cockfighting enthusiasts which first made headlines in 2022.
Patidongan claimed in his sworn affidavit that the ex-judge, now serving as a senior PCSO official, is being protected by other officials in the agency who allegedly have close ties to Malacañang.
This protection, he said, enabled the former judge to influence the outcome of cases in favor of Ang.
While Remulla did not disclose the identity of the official who is under investigation, he emphasized that the scope of the probe is broad and ongoing.
He also confirmed that Patidongan has submitted a sworn statement, though discussions are still underway on whether he can serve as a witness.
Aside from the retired judge, several government officials where involved and currently under investigation including the more than 15 personnel of Philippine National Police (PNP), which was confirmed by PNP Chief PGen. Nicolas Torre III.
