PACC commissioner defends Duterte's 'gifts not bribes' remark

An official of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) has weighed in on President Rodrigo Duterte's remark that police officers may receive gifts as "it is not bribery."

"When people give gifts to say thank you, then that is an expression of gratitude from the giver. A Christian attitude taught to us by Christ himself. But when the government official asks for gifts for a favor or consideration connected to his official capacity the giver is asking for, then that is corruption the President will not allow" PACC commissioner Greco Belgica told GMA News Online in a text message.

According to the commissioner, the PACC cannot investigate the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines unless ordered by the President.

"However, the restriction does not in anyway bar me from reporting and submitting reports and recommendations to the President for his consideration," Belgica added.

He also said: "The President is my appointing authority. I do what he says. I will protect him and help him accomplish his missions in the best of my abilities."

Duterte made the remark as he was giving a speech before officials and members before police officers at the 118th anniversary event of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Indicating he did not consider gift-giving bribery, Duterte said: “Kung bigyan kayo tanggapin n’yo. It is not bribery... What I mean is if there is generosity in them. Sabi ng anti-graft you cannot accept gifts. Kalokohan."

Duterte, formerly the mayor of Davao City, also indicated he had no problem with police receiving gifts especially if from people expressing their gratitude. “You guys from Davao, alam n’yo yan. If you are able to solve a crime  and the family would like to be generous to you or a feeling of gratitude for what you accomplished, by all means accept it." — Margaret Claire Layug/MDM, GMA News