Ombudsman: Senator Robin Padilla 'Ignores' Summons

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Senator Robin Padilla, the former action hero of Philippine cinema, has been summoned by the Office of the Ombudsman for allegedly helping his friend and fellow Senator Bato Dela Rosa 'escape' from justice. According to the Office of the Ombudsman, Padilla, along with Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and dismissed Senate sergeant-at-arms Ma O. Aplasca, were asked to respond to the complaint within a non-extendible period of 15 days on June 3.

On June 3, Assistant Ombudsman Moreno Generoso issued the summons, but since then, Padilla has failed to respond. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said, 'Padilla has not said anything about this,' adding that this 'ignores' the Office of the Ombudsman's complaint.

The complaint was filed by Tindig Pilipinas, a political opposition group, who alleged that Dela Rosa was let off the hook by Padilla and others after being accused of a crime. Tindig Pilipinas alleged that Dela Rosa received special treatment despite the 'serious obstruction of justice' allegations.

Senator Bato Dela Rosa is no stranger to controversy, having been accused of several crimes, including a bribery scandal. He is the former Bureau of Correction chief who resigned in 2020 after a bribery scandal erupted. Dela Rosa had previously served as the police chief and was a key figure in the Duterte administration's anti-drug campaign.

According to the Philippine News Agency, the Office of the Ombudsman is investigating the allegations and will take appropriate action. The investigation is ongoing, and the Office of the Ombudsman is waiting for Padilla's response.

The Office of the Ombudsman is an independent government agency that investigates complaints against government officials and agencies. The Ombudsman is the head of the agency and is responsible for ensuring the impartial investigation of complaints.