MANILA (PNA) — President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday that the Truth Commission to be headed by former Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. will have a wider mandate and jurisdiction.

During a Malacanang press briefing, the President said the Commission will give recommendations towards correcting the system and preventing abuses.

“Ayoko ilimit yung gagawin ni Chief Justice (Davide). If you put limits, you are already telling them there are boundaries,” said the President as he sought to clarify speculation that the Davide panel is centered on allegations of abuses and corruption during the incumbency of former President Gloria Mapacagal Arroyo.

At the same time the President expressed confidence in Davide, saying the former SC chief is “most qualified” to head the commission.

“At this stage of his life, he (Davide) would not want to be associated with something mediocre or a failure in terms of the mandate he has,” the President said.

The President said that the order formalizing the Truth Commission, including its functions and composition, may be issued before the end of this month.

He said that as promised, the commission will have enough authority to ensure the cooperation of the state and all its instrumentalties including the Department of Justice, which “will be working closely” with Davide. (PNA)