Question & AnswerQ&A (LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS NO. 108)
The main objective is to conduct an investigation to ascertain responsibility for the loss of 344 hogsheads and pilferage of 200 other hogsheads of PTVA tobacco stored in warehouses and to initiate appropriate criminal charges against those responsible.
Brigadier General Prospero Olivas, Chief of the Criminal Investigation Service (CIS) of the Philippine Constabulary, is directed to conduct the investigation.
The letter directs the initiation of appropriate criminal charges based on the outcome of the investigation into the loss and pilferage of government property, which constitutes a violation of laws protecting government property.
The lost and pilfered tobacco belonged to the Philippine Tobacco and Virgin Islands Administration (PTVA).
Filing criminal charges serves to hold accountable those responsible for theft or loss of government property, which is a punishable offense under Philippine laws related to the protection of government assets.
Such acts could be penalized under the Revised Penal Code provisions related to theft, pilferage, or under special laws regarding the protection of government property and public officials' accountability laws.
The office that issued the letter (likely a higher supervisory office) must be informed of the findings and actions taken.
Hogsheads are large barrels or containers used for storing and transporting tobacco.
The Chief of Constabulary is the intermediary through which the investigation directive is transmitted to the Chief of CIS, ensuring proper conduct of the investigation.
Because government property is funded by public resources, its loss or theft affects public interest and government operations and therefore must be properly accounted for, investigated, and penalized to maintain integrity and public trust.