VP Leni criticizes NBI probe on LGUs amid COVID-19 crisis

Vice President Leni Robredo criticized the National Bureau of Investigation's (NBI) decision to probe local government units (LGUs) during the COVID-19 crisis, stating that LGUs should receive support instead of investigations.

Robredo argued that the national government had previously delegated the responsibility of managing the crisis to LGUs, making the NBI's actions counterproductive to the efforts being encouraged at this time.

Her statement came after the NBI summoned Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto for questioning over an alleged violation of the Bayanihan Act when he allowed tricycles to operate amid the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.

The Vice President emphasized that the innovative and creative solutions of local officials in combating COVID-19 should be applauded and replicated as best practices.

She believes that strong LGUs contribute to the nation's progress and expressed concern that the NBI's actions suggest a desire for the national government to maintain centralized control over all efforts.