Zamora welcomes dismissal of malversation raps

MANILA, Philippines - Former San Juan City vice mayor Francis Zamora yesterday welcomed the Sandiganbayan’s decision dismissing the charges filed against him and several others over the purchase of high-powered firearms in 2008.

“My family and I, together with our beloved San Juaneños, are rejoicing in the decision of the Sandiganbayan acquitting us of the charges of technical malversation or illegal use of public funds,” he said in a statement.

The anti-graft court cleared Zamora and several other politicians, including Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito, of allegations that they conspired to purchase P2.1 million worth of firearms using the city government’s calamity fund.

Zamora was city councilor and Ejercito was mayor when the purchase was made.

The Sandiganbayan found that the money came from the city’s general fund.

Zamora, son of Rep. Ronaldo Zamora, ran for mayor against incumbent Mayor Guia Gomez in the last election but lost.