Ex-Northern Samar mayor faces raps for dealing with own firm

MANILA, Philippines - The Office of the Ombudsman has indicted a former mayor of a Northern Samar town for transacting with a business enterprise which he owns.

 

Ex-mayor Rogelio Tan of Pambujan, Northern Samar is now facing two counts of violation of the Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

 

Records show that in October 2007, Tan allowed the procurement of various snacks amounting to P7,315.20 from Siertan Agrivet Supply during the celebration of his 100 days local government unit's report.

 

In April 2009, Tan also allowed his company to supply several kilos of dressed chicken, spaghetti sauce and hotdog amounting to  P12,404.

 

The resolution said "the minimal amounts involved and respondent's claim that sometimes he would spend his own money for the municipality's expenses is of no consequence."

 

It also cited that Section 89 of the Local Government Code expressly provides that it shall be unlawful for any local government official or employee, directly or indirectly, to engage in any business transaction with the local government unit in which he is an official or employee or over which he has the power of supervision.

 

The graft charges against Tan, Bids and Awards Committee members Algy Amadeo Sosing, Amancio Acedera Jr., Fernando Socorro, Zosimo Siervo, Eva Bacarra, and suppliers Soledad Tan and Generoso Rojo were dismissed for lack of probable cause.