SAP anomaly: 10 Negros village execs face raps

BACOLOD CITY , Philippines — Ten barangay officials and a health worker in Talisay City, Negros Occidental are in hot water over alleged irregularities in the distribution of the government’s social amelioration program (SAP).

Manuel Apellido Jr., chairman of Barangay Matab-ang; barangay council members Erlinda Bruno, Garry Saludares, Ronald Puson and Randy Mananquil; secretary Janelle Isabelle Legaspi, and treasurer Evelyn Cabale were charged with violation of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and RA 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) filed the cases before the Talisay city prosecutor’s office on Tuesday.

The CIDG-Western Visayas said Apellido distributed P6,000 in SAP assistance to unqualified recipients, including his relatives.

The barangay officials gave priority to their personal interest, resulting in the exclusion of qualified beneficiaries, the CIDG said.

An administrative case for violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees will be filed against the respondents before the Office of the Ombudsman, the CIDG added.

Similar charges were filed against Kim Piramo, chairman of Barangay 19 in this city; secretary Joemarie Cordeta, treasurer Raiza Fronda and health worker Jean Doromal, also on Tuesday.

Chief M/Sgt. Ramiro Gocotano, CIDG-Bacolod officer-in-charge, said the barangay officials were accused of giving cash aid to their unqualified relatives.

Charges had been earlier filed against a barangay chairman, an employee of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and two other persons in Isabela, also over alleged anomalies in the distribution of SAP assistance.

Three barangay officials in Barangay Felisa in this city face the same charges.