MANILA, Feb 6 — The Department of Justice (DOJ) was cited as one of four agencies with a net sincerity rating of Good in 2013, according to the latest Social Weather Survey results presented recently at the AIM Conference Center in Makati City.
The Social Weather Station (SWS) 2013 Enterprise Survey on Corruption gave a +35 score for the DOJ, a turn-around from the negative 5 (-5) low in 2009 representing a significant 40-point increase.
“We welcome the findings of the SWS and this encourages us to work harder and better,” said Secretary of Justice Leila M. de Lima. “We know there are still corruption in our ranks and we intend to make our Internal Affairs Unit effective to achieve our zero-corruption target,” she added.
The double upgrade of the DOJ from Neutral/Moderate to Good is a record-high, the DOJ statement said.
It said this could be attributed to the reform programs initiated and sustained by the present Administration, including the investigation of major cases, implementation of consistent policies, utilization of ICT to monitor performance, and selection and placement of qualified and dedicated personnel.
The DOJ is a co-convenor and vice chair of the Inter-Agency Anti-Graft Coordinating Council (IAAGCC) and chairs the Philippine Development Forum (PDF) that channels development efforts to good governance plans.
The 2013 Survey is supported by Australian Aid, The Asia Foundation, National Competitiveness Council, and the Integrity Initiative. (based on a report of the Philippine Information Agency)