NBI to continue flood probe — Matibag

THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will maintain its existing systems and strengthen its handling of ongoing flood control investigation, its newly sworn chief said on Monday.

“There is already an existing task force that is functioning, and we will not interfere with it,” NBI Director Melvin A. Matibag told reporters at the Department of Justice (DoJ) after a courtesy meeting with Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida.

“Whatever system is in place at the NBI, we will enhance it and protect it at the same time,” he added.

Former NBI director Angelito “Lito” DLP. Magno officially handed over the leadership during a ceremony on Monday, following Mr. Matibag’s oath taking at Malacañang last week.

The NBI has filed multiple criminal complaints now pending preliminary investigation at the DoJ against several individuals, including senators and public works officials, over alleged anomalies in government infrastructure projects.

“Well, whatever system is already operating will just be continued, and the cases that are under investigation will just be continued,” Mr. Matibag said.

“As for prosecution related to flood control cases, we all know that the final [authority] is with the Office of the Ombudsman,” he added.

Mr. Matibag served as Cabinet secretary of former President Rodrigo R. Duterte and was also secretary-general for Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking