MANILA, Philippines– Former lawmaker Zaldy Co and several Department of Public Works and Highways officials face graft and corruption charges that the Office of the Ombudsman filed over alleged irregularities in flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro in the Philippines.
Prosecutors from the Ombudsman lodged the criminal cases in the anti-graft court and attached charge sheets that name Co and the DPWH officials as respondents. The information alleges that they participated in the implementation or approval of flood mitigation and control works that the DPWH undertook in selected areas of Oriental Mindoro.
The Ombudsman stated in the information that the respondents caused undue injury to the government and gave unwarranted benefits to certain contractors through manifest partiality, evident bad faith, or gross inexcusable negligence.
The cases include alleged violations of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The Ombudsman alleged that the accused approved or facilitated transactions for the flood control projects that did not comply with government procurement laws and regulations.
The Ombudsman also claimed in the charge sheets that some project components did not conform to approved plans, specifications, or timelines. The information lists the names and positions of the DPWH officials who allegedly took part in the questioned transactions.
The Ombudsman asked the Sandiganbayan to issue warrants of arrest against Co and the DPWH officials and to set the cases for arraignment and trial. The court will raffle the cases to one of its divisions in accordance with its procedures.
After the raffle, the Sandiganbayan will notify Co and the DPWH officials of the charges and will require them to appear for arraignment. The accused may file motions, including motions for reconsideration, motions to dismiss, or motions to quash the information.
The DPWH serves as the national government agency responsible for public works and infrastructure, including flood control projects, in Oriental Mindoro and other provinces. The flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro aim to reduce flooding and protect communities in low-lying and flood-prone areas of the province.
