The Office of the Ombudsman has launched a preliminary investigation against Cagayan Third District Representative Joseph Lasam Lara and members of his family over alleged financial interests in construction companies linked to billions of pesos in government infrastructure contracts.
In a press release, the Ombudsman said the investigation involves possible plunder arising from the lawmaker’s and his family’s alleged connections to companies that secured contracts from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
The probe seeks to examine the alleged financial interests of Lara and his relatives in construction firms involved in government-funded infrastructure projects.
The investigation comes amid heightened scrutiny of government infrastructure spending and concerns over possible conflicts of interest involving public officials and private contractors.
The Ombudsman’s preliminary investigation will determine whether sufficient grounds exist to pursue criminal charges against the individuals involved.
The allegations remain subject to investigation, and no finding of criminal liability has been established.
The Office of the Ombudsman is mandated to investigate and prosecute public officials accused of corruption, misconduct, and other violations of anti-graft laws.
