Guingona seeks protection for chopper deal whistleblower

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Guingona seeks protection for chopper deal whistleblower
The Department of Justice is evaluating if Rhodora Alvarez should be put under the Witness Protection Program

MANILA, Philippines – Senate Blue Ribbon chairman Senator Teofisto Guingona III asked the Department of Justice to protect the whistleblower in the allegedly anomalous P1.2-billion deal for the refurbished choppers of the Philippine Air Force.

He wrote Justice Secretary Leila De Lima to request that Rhodora Alvarez, a former agent of winning bidder Rice Aircraft Services Inc (RASI), be placed under the DOJ’s Witness Protection Program.

In a text message, De Lima told the senator that the request is now being evaluated. A decision is expected within the week.

Alvarez, who accused defense officials of colluding to “tailor-fit” the contract for RASI, has expressed concern that her life “may be in danger,” according to Guingona. (READ: Insider drags DND chief into ‘anomalous’ chopper deal)

The senator said he acknowledges that Alvarez plays a “key role” in the Senate Blue Ribbon probe into the chopper deal and has asked defense officials to respond to her allegations. (READ: Engine defects in newly delivered Air Force choppers exposed)

“We recognize the value of that role and we are making sure she is safe and protected so she can fulfill that role,” Guingona said. – Rappler.com

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