THE double standard on the pork barrel controversy is becoming too glaring as [President Benigno Aquino III, popularly called] Noynoy immediately absolved two close associates … from their involvement in the scam despite being named in a credible document coming from an official within his circle. The two officials were absolved … through the mere indication by Noynoy that he continues to have trust and confidence in both. Such expression of Noynoy’s trust was enough for the Department of Justice or the Office of the Ombudsman not to pursue any investigation. …

…The Tribune the other day reported that a similar public money vacuum cleaner is being run right inside the Palace through three aides of a Palace high official. … Noynoy’s cover-up for his men … only indicates that he has complete knowledge of what is going on within his circle. … The public was promised that those implicated in the scandal would be prosecuted. …

Now that it appears that the pieces of evidence are all heading … toward the Palace, it looks like every means is being employed for cover-up operations. … — (May 27)

Published in Dawn, May 29th, 2014