Culture & Entertainment · Philippines Bureau
Lacson extends benefit of doubt to Tesda chief over alleged fund offer
Senator Panfilo Lacson said Monday he is willing to give Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Jose Francisco Benitez the benefit of the doubt regarding an alleged P5 million allocation offer. Benitez has denied authorizing the purported transaction over the weekend.
LSN Philippines ·

MANILA — Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson expressed willingness Monday to give Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) Director-General Jose Francisco "Kiko" Benitez the benefit of the doubt over an alleged P5 million allocation offer made to the lawmaker.
Benitez issued a denial over the weekend regarding his involvement in authorizing the supposed fund transfer, prompting Lacson's measured response during Monday's proceedings.
The senator's statement reflects an openness to accepting Benitez's explanation without prejudging the matter, despite the controversy surrounding the purported financial arrangement.
The incident has drawn scrutiny to Tesda's administrative practices and fund management procedures, with the denial from the agency's top official indicating a potential dispute over authorization and accountability in the transaction.
Lacson's position suggests he is awaiting further clarification or evidence before taking a definitive stance on the matter.