Photo courtesy of Robert Oswald Alfiler/PNA
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said cases should be filed against all lawmakers who are also contractors and are involved in controversial flood control projects for possible graft and conflict of interest violations.
Clavano explained that the issue stems from the growing number of contractors entering party-list positions in Congress. He noted that the law prohibits contractors from serving as lawmakers, particularly since Congress itself approves infrastructure contracts.
He added that the conflict of interest is clear and the law explicitly forbids serving as both a contractor and a congressman. Clavano stressed that this legal restriction is meant to prevent abuse and ensure accountability.
Asked whether cases should be filed, he replied that lawmakers in this situation really should face charges. Clavano emphasized that while the offense is not as severe as malversation and is bailable, it still requires action to uphold the law and discourage impunity.
He said the proper legal basis for such cases is Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which covers situations where lawmakers have conflicting interests in projects they oversee.
Last year, the Office of the Ombudsman filed two cases at the Sandiganbayan involving former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co and former senator Bong Revilla, along with several officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways.
Another case involving contractor Sarah Discaya and other DPWH officials was filed in a regional trial court. All three cases are still undergoing trial.
