MANILA, April 29 – Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales reminds government officials and employees that April 30 is the last day for the filing of sworn Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) for the year 2015.
Pursuant to the 1987 Constitution, Section 8(a) of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees specifically mandates government officials and employees to file their SALNs “(a) within thirty (30) days after assumption of office; (b) on or before April 30, of every year thereafter; and (c) within thirty (30) days after separation from the service.” However, those who serve in an honorary capacity, laborers and casual or temporary workers are exempted from the filing.
Ombudsman Morales advised that “the honest and truthful accomplishment of the form as the same has been at the center of several administrative and criminal charges against government officials and employees alike.” At the same time, the SALN is a potent tool for determining ill gotten wealth as it includes a waiver authorizing the Ombudsman or his authorized representatives to obtain documents that may show assets, liabilities, net worth, business interests, and financial connections from all appropriate government agencies for investigatory purposes.
The SALN is a declaration under oath of assets (i.e., lands, houses, cash, etc), liabilities (i.e., personal or institutional loans), and business and financial interests, of a government official, spouse, and unmarried children under 18 years old still living in their household.(OMBUDSMAN)
