Ex-Sulu governor fined over SALN violations

MANILA, Philippines — Former Sulu governor Abdusakur Tan Sr. has evaded a jail sentence after he pleaded guilty to not filing his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALNs).

The Sandiganbayan’s Sixth Division ordered Tan to just pay a fine of P25,000 following his guilty plea during his arraignment on Thursday.

Filed by the Office of Ombudsman in February, the charges stemmed from Tan’s failure to file his SALNs from 2007 to 2011.

Tan’s son, Maimbung Mayor Samier Tan, was also charged with two counts of violation of Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standard for Public Officials and Employees for not filing his SALNs for 2010 and 2011. The arraignment is set on May 11.

The ombudsman had earlier suspended the Tans for six months for “habitual failure” to file their SALNs.

The former governor’s other son, Sulu Vice Gov. Abdusakur Tan Jr., was suspended for one month for simple neglect of duty for failing to file his SALNs for 2013 and 2014 under oath.

Section 8 (a) of RA 6713 requires public officials and employees to file their SALNs under oath within 30 days after assuming office, on or before April 30 of every year and within 30 days after separation from the service.