2 ex-NIA execs, current regional manager face graft raps

MANILA, Philippines - Government operatives filed criminal charges against two former officials of the National Irrigation Authority, and an incumbent regional manager for alleged implementation of anomalous projects in Caraga region.

 

The Joint Special Investigating Team, composed of operatives from different government agencies, filed violations of the Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and the Procurement Law against ex- NIA regional managers Modesto Membreve and Dexter Patrocinio, and current NIA-Caraga regional manager Encarnacion Soriano for their involvement in the anomalous implementation of the projects worth P119 million.

 

The JSIT was tasked by President Benigno Aquino III to investigate the NIA projects in CARAGA, particularly in Agusan del Norte, amid allegations by different sectors that the procurement and implementation of the projects were tainted with anomalies and irregularities.

 

Investigators learned that funds were released in early 2012 to the implementing NIA regional office in Caraga but the projects remain unfinished. 

 

Technical specialists also found that the materials used in the projects were substandard and prescribed specifications were disregarded.

 

More charges will be filed before the Office of the Ombudsman against the key NIA officials and 50 other individuals, covering anomalous projects in Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

 

The probe on the other anomalous projects of the NIA is still underway.