Members of the Negros Oriental Network of NGO’s (NEGORNET) have expressed their collective sentiment and indignation over a “national shame”, referring to the recently discovered corruption of incredible magnitude as monitored by the Commission on Audit (COA).
NEGORNET is a network of civil society organization in Negros Oriental that is recognized with registered non-government organizations (NGOs) in the province as members. At present, they have a total of 24 NGO members and three associate members.
Msgr. Merlin Logronio, president of NEGORNET and president of the Saint Maria Goretti Foundation said they wanted to clear the name of NGOs after their reputation was marred by the bogus NGOs that were identified beneficiaries of the pork barrel scam of Janet Lim Napoles, a media release said Friday.
Msgr. Logronio said NEGORNET upheld the rules, regulations and guidelines as NGOs that work solely for the betterment of the community. They also clarified that they have not received any amount as beneficiary of the controversial pork barrel scam.
NEGORNET strongly condemned the scam involving P10-billion of lawmakers’ Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel that went to the pockets of individuals and fake NGOs.
“The scandalous bastardization has destroyed the wholesome image of non-governmental organizations”, the statement said.
NEGORNET also expressed disappointment over what they perceive as scheming legislators in national government.
“In spite of negative perceptions of the PDAF scam, the network of civil society organizations in Negros Oriental shall continue to partner with local government units to live up on its mission and vision to improve the quality of life our people and to be a strong partner of our local government”, said Msgr. Logronio in the media release.
He added NEGORNET also promotes the spirit of volunteerism among civil societies and makes sure that all plans, programs and capabilities complement with those of government at various levels. (PNA)
