Ombudsman Denies Appeal of Respondents in PDAF Cases

Manila– Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales on Thursday denied the motions for reconsideration (MRs) filed by alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Napoles and co-respondents Senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Ramon Revilla Jr. and Jinggoy Estrada as “rehashes” of previous arguments already resolved by the office.

In three separate joint orders all dated June 4, 2014, Morales found that the MRs “carry verbatim repetitions of the issues and claims raised” by respondents in their respective counter-affidavits.

The case stemmed from the respondents’ alleged irregular diversion of Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAF) to “dummy” non-government organizations (NGOs) for “ghost” projects.

“Evidently, the motions for reconsideration are rehashes of the arguments previously raised by them and already resolved by this Office,” the joint orders said.

The Ombudsman is set to file before the Sandiganbayan the criminal charges for plunder and violations of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

In a separate letter dated June 4, 2014, Morales also denied Napoles’ request for immunity for likewise not meeting the qualifications to become an immune witness.

“Furthermore, Napoles appears to be among the most guilty of all respondents” in these cases, stated the letter which was in response to the letter of Napoles’ counsel requesting to utilize her as state witness and grant her immunity.

On the other hand, Morales extended immunity from criminal prosecution to witnesses Benhur Luy, Marina Sula, Merlina Suñas, Mary Arlene Baltazar and Simonette Briones. (PNA) LAM/PTR

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