From the Website of PNA
links https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1263514
Graft raps filed vs. Zaldy Co, others for P289-M Mindoro project
MANILA – The Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) on Tuesday filed graft charges against
The cases stemmed from the complaint filed by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) before the OMB on Sept. 29 based on their comprehensive report on illegalities and irregularities in the procurement, construction, and implementation of projects in Region 4-B (Mimaropa).
The project in question was for the construction of a road dike along the Mag-Asawang Tubig River in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, with a budget of PHP289,498,230.
The cases filed were for malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents, and violation of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (Republic Act [RA] 3019).
Co was additionally charged with violation of Section 3(h) of RA 3019 for receiving unwarranted financial or pecuniary benefits.
“Because the amount malversed exceeds PHP8.8 million, and in line with the law and jurisprudence, the panel of Ombudsman prosecutors has recommended no bail,” Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a statement.
Investigations showed that the measured sheet pile did not meet the 12-meter specification and that the materials used were substandard. It is highly possible that all other sheet piles used in the project were also below specification.
“These findings point to a scheme that resulted in unwarranted benefits, technical falsification, and the misuse of public funds,” the Ombudsman said.
Remulla assured the public that his office will pursue the case “firmly, independently, and without fear or favor.”
“Public funds were meant to protect communities from flooding – not to enrich officials or private contractors. Those responsible will be held to account,” he said.
“This is the first case that was referred by ICI and, as a result, it is the first case to be filed in court. I would like to emphasize that this is the first of many cases that will be filed in court. There are several cases in the preliminary investigation stage and more in the fact-finding stage. We will update the media and the public as these cases become ripe for filing in court, as well.” (PNA)
PNA Websites
links:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER HUMAN RIGHTS PROMOTIONS WEBSITES
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------
