MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the investigation of Philippine Ambassador to Brazil Marichu Mauro over allegations of maltreating a Filipina household worker.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte gave the green light in line with the recommendation of Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr.
“We confirm that President Duterte allowed DFA to investigate Ambassador Marichu Mauro,” Roque said in a virtual presser. “DFA can also recommend criminal charges against her if proven guilty for maltreating her Filipino staff.”
“Ang administrasyon ni Duterte ay ginagawa ang lahat para bigyan ng proteksiyon ang mga manggagawa sa abroad. Kasama na diyan ang kasambahay ni Ambassador Mauro,” he added.
The Palace spokesperson added that the investigation will be carried out consistent with the relevant provisions of the law, particularly the Foreign Service Act of 1991.
According to Section 51 of the Act, “the chiefs of mission who are commissioned by the President as ambassadors extraordinary and plenipotentiary shall not be investigated by the Board or separated from the Service unless there is an express written directive from the President.”
Brazilian news outlet Globo News earlier released a CCTV video footage showing Mauro hitting the head of her Filipina household helper, who can be seen cowering in fear./PN
