(Eagle News) — Senator Richard Gordon on Tuesday, June 5, urged President Rodrigo Duterte to sign into law a proposed bill that seeks to create a retirement benefit system in the Ombudsman.
Gordon made the statement following the killing of Ombudsman Assistant Special Prosecutor Madonna Joy Tanyag.
Under Senate Bill 1638, the heirs of Tanyag would be entitled to death benefits equivalent to five years’ worth of salary.
Death benefits under the bill are also retroactive, and shall be granted to the heirs of those who pass away a year prior to the effectivity of the law.
“Nothing but justice will assuage the feelings of the family left behind by Madonna, but this will hopefully cushion her family against the adverse economic effects of her sudden demise,” Gordon said.
“I strongly condemn the killing in no uncertain terms. This is a slap once again on the face of justice in this country,” he added.
Tanyag, who was five months pregnant, was stabbed several times by a man who allegedly attempted to rob him on Visayas Ave. on Monday, June 4.
He was later identified as Angelito Avenido, a jeepney barker.
Avenido has since been arrested.