Kabataan Partylist Representative Raymond “Mong” Palatino today challenged the Ombudsman and the House of Representatives to immediately act on the recommendations of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to prosecute President Arroyo and other public officials involved in the NBN-ZTE controversy.

“An impeachment case against Arroyo and graft raps versus those involved remain in order. We especially want to see FG Mike and former Comelec chair Abalos in trial, while further investigation may just shed more light from the testimonies of the likes of Neri, Joey de Venecia and Jun Lozada,” Palatino said.

Palatino said he found it unfortunate that Lozada and de Venecia were included among those who should be charged with graft and corruption. “This might send a wrong message to future whistleblowers,” he said.

“The problem, however, is that institutions that can prosecute them are so tight with the First Family. In fact, their clout in the House of Representatives and the Ombudsman has resulted to the junking of several impeachment and graft raps in the past. Arroyo has virtually destroyed checks and balances in the government,” he said.

The young lawmaker said, “Once again, the dismissal of possible cases versus the Arroyos would put them in a bad light among the youth who only want those who abuse their power for plunder and massive larceny. We hope that these institutions at least redeem themselves, especially Arroyo’s allies in Congress, before the 2010 elections.” ##