Our statement of support for former Isabela Governor Grace Padaca

 We are deeply saddened and disheartened by the news that former Governor Grace Padaca of Isabela is now subject of a warrant of arrest for a criminal case pending before the Sandiganbayan.

This case notwithstanding, we believe in the innocence of the former governor and Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for Government Service. We also believe that in the end the truth will prevail and that she will be absolved.

I have no doubt in my mind that Governor Grace is a woman of principle and integrity, and that this criminal case is but an effort by her political adversaries to bring her down.

In addition, the fact that the project in question is now in limbo because of this case—a project means to uplift the plight of farmers in the province—is another most unfortunate development.

In the end, I trust that our system of justice will strike down this grave injustice to the former governor and to our rice farmers in the province of Isabela.