The Office of the Ombudsman has found basis to file graft charges at the Sandiganbayan against former Philippine Coast Guard chief William Melad and 24 others for their alleged involvement in the irregular disbursements and procurement of office and construction supplies worth P68 million in 2014. The Ombudsman also found basis to charge Isorena, Esplana, Fabul, Caguioa, Arquero, Lopez, and Quintas with violation of Section 65 of the Government Procurement Reform Act. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ombudsman said the respondents purchased cell cards, hardware, office, construction, and IT supplies without public bidding. The Ombudsman imposed on the respondents the penalty of dismissal from the service with cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and perpetual disqualification from holding public office. The penalty is convertible to a fine equivalent to the respondent’s one-year salary in case the penalty can no longer be enforced.

Source: Manila Times July 26, 2017 12:33 UTC