[ad_1]
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 28) – The Department of Foreign Relations (DFA) still needs the approval of President Rodrigo Duterte before it can initiate an investigation against the Philippine ambassador to Brazil, Marichu Mauro, accused of mistreating a domestic helper, said Secretary Teodoro “Teddy Boy” Locsin Jr.
Locsin promised that the DFA’s response in this regard will be “severe to the extent permitted by law.” He added that the corresponding charges will be brought against Mauro if the results of the investigation require such actions.
Locsin, however, explained that President Duterte must give the signal to go to the investigation since the envoys are appointed presidential.
According to article 51 of the Republic Law 7157, “the heads of mission who are commissioned by the President as extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassadors will not be investigated by the Board or separated from the Service unless there is an express directive in writing from the President” .
In addition, Locsin said in a statement Wednesday that Mauro’s removal will allow DFA to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the alleged mistreatment of his domestic employee.
“Under my leadership, the DFA will in no way tolerate the actions of any of its officers or rank-and-file personnel that go against our core mandate, which is to promote and protect the well-being of all Filipinos abroad,” he said. .
Brazilian news outlet Globo News published a video allegedly showing Mauro repeatedly “berating and mistreating” his Filipino aide.
Advocacy group to offer legal assistance
The Blas F. Ople Training Institute and Policy Center, an advocacy group for Filipino workers abroad, told CNN the Philippines on Wednesday that it is ready to offer legal and other assistance to the abused person.
Its executive director, Jerome Alcantara, said the institute has clues to the identity of the aide.
[ad_2]
