Sandigan affirms raps vs Hagedorn over SALN violations

MANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan will proceed with the trial of former Puerto Princesa City mayor Edward Hagedorn for alleged misdeclarations in his statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALNs) from 2004 to 2012.

In a resolution released yesterday, the fifth division of the anti-graft court denied Hagedorn’s petition to dismiss the cases filed against him for lack of merit.

The Sandiganbayan said Hagedorn failed to raise any new or valid arguments to reverse its July 19 ruling.

The Office of the Ombudsman filed nine counts each of graft, perjury and violation of Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees against Hagedorn last March 17.

In its complaint, the ombudsman said Hagedorn failed to declare ownership of 59 residential, commercial and agricultural properties, 45 vehicles as well as his positions in six corporations, including the Puerto Princesa Broadcasting Corp., where he is said to be a board member.

The Sandiganbayan also dismissed Hagedorn’s claim that  there was inordinate delay in the investigation by the ombudsman.

“Allegations...of unjust delay are a mere rehash of his earlier pleadings and did not raise any new matter. The accused simply restated the arguments already addressed and found unmeritorious by this court,” the ruling penned by Associate Justice Maria Theresa Mendoza-Arcega read.

The court also found no merit in Hagedorn’s argument that he could not be simultaneously tried for all the charges.