Info source denies interview; PDI stands by story

I write in reaction to the report that came out in the Inquirer titled “New commish is Iqbal nephew” (Second Front Page, 5/6/15). Contrary to what was written, I was never interviewed, in person or by phone, about the appointment of anyone in the Commission on Elections. Quoting a text message from someone whose number is not even verified to be mine, and attributing it to me, is not responsible journalism and should not be tolerated.

Let me also question the outdated information in the report, which says I am a lawyer and program coordinator of the Alternative Legal Assistance Center. The truth of the matter is I am no longer connected with that nongovernment organization, as I resigned therefrom more than two years ago. It is unfortunate that the organization’s name had to be mentioned when due diligence and thorough research could have clarified the facts, and the outright lies and misinformation.

—RAISSA H. JAJURIE

Except for the error in Ms Jajurie’s title, Inquirer Mindanao stands by its story. The mobile phone number in question was provided by ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman. Our correspondent Ryan Rosauro also gave the same phone number.—Inquirer Mindanao