Ex-officials behind ‘China deal’ should be jailed – solon

FORMER government officials behind the alleged “gentlemen’s agreement” with China should be held accountable if the supposed secret deal is proven true.

Taguig City 2nd District Rep. Amparo Maria Zamora on Monday said they must be put behind bars.

“Pagka talaga natukoy na natin kung sino talaga ‘yung behind, ‘yung mga taong behind this so-called gentleman’s agreement, we should hold all of them accountable. We should put them in jail,” she said in press conference at the House of Representatives following the start of the probe on the alleged agreement allegedly made to maintain the status quo in Ayungin shoal.

Incumbent Foreign Affairs and Defense department officials who attended the hearing all denied the existence of a gentleman’s agreement.

Lawmakers also have expressed disappointment over the absence of former Duterte administration officials invited to the hearing.

Zambales 1st District Rep. Jefferson Khonghun, author of the resolution called for the probe, said there is need to ferret out the truth.

“Nakakaapekto rin ito sa administration ng ating Pangulong Bongbong Marcos. Bilang Kongreso, ang komite ay may oversight functions so kailangan talaga silang pumunta. Gagawin lahat ng komite upang mag-attend ‘yung inimbitahan na mag-attend,” he said. (PNA)