Senator Calls for Return of Stolen Funds Before Witness Protection Eligibility

In a Senate inquiry on a flood control scandal, Senator Bam Aquino asserted on Tuesday that restitution of misappropriated public funds should be a prerequisite for individuals seeking inclusion in the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Witness Protection Program (WPP). Aquino questioned Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla during the Senate blue ribbon committee session about making the return of pilfered government money a condition for state witness status.

"I believe that is what many people expect. If someone wishes to become a state witness, it is crucial that the money stolen from our nation is returned," Aquino stated.

Justice Secretary Remulla responded that while court orders generally dictate restitution, the DOJ also treats the willingness to return funds as an indicator of a witness's sincerity.

"Returning the money is a court mandate. However, to assess a witness's good faith, this is one of the questions we ask," Remulla explained. "If they want protection, they must demonstrate complete sincerity by returning the funds. This serves as a test to determine the witness's reliability. Although not codified in policy, it is a measure we use."

The issue triggered a sharp exchange with Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who maintained that no existing law requires restitution for potential witnesses seeking government protection.

In contrast, Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan highlighted that no legislation prohibits witnesses from voluntarily returning ill-gotten gains to the state in good faith.

Senator Erwin Tulfo also supported the proposal, remarking, "We shouldn't be constrained by the law at times. Sometimes, it is necessary to bend the rules to meet the people's expectations. The welfare of the public is above the law."

The debate underscores ongoing discussions about legal frameworks surrounding witness protection and accountability for recovered public funds.