The order was in connection with the alleged irregularities in the Department of Health’s transfer of P41.46 billion to PS-DBM at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
In a 49-page resolution dated May 6 and approved by Ombudsman Samuel Martires on May 8, the anti-graft agency said probable cause exists to prosecute Duque and Lao in court for violation of Section 3 (e) of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
Section 3 (e) of RA 3019 prohibits public officials from giving unwarranted benefit, advantage or preference to a private party or from causing any party, including the government, undue injury.
Meanwhile, in a separate decision also approved by Martires on May 8, the ombudsman found Duque and Lao guilty of the administrative offenses of grave misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, still in connection with the P41.46-billion fund transfer.
Duque and Lao were meted the penalty of dismissal from service. But since they were no longer connected with the DOH and PS-DBM, respectively, the ombudsman said the dismissal is convertible to a fine equivalent to their salaries for one year.
The ombudsman also ordered the forfeiture of all their retirement benefits and perpetual disqualification from reemployment in the government service.
Esta historia es de la edición May 11, 2024 de The Philippine Star.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición May 11, 2024 de The Philippine Star.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
BSP to propose law vs illegal money service firms
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is set to propose legislation against illegally operating money service businesses (MSBs) and nonbank financial institutions (NBFIs) who are not registered with the central bank.
Domestic trade expands 47% to P390 B in Q1
The value of commodities traded within the country posted a double-digit growth in the first quarter, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
AIIB approves P64-B loan for Bataan-Cavite bridge
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is extending up to P64 billion in loans to fund the construction of the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge (BCIB) project and enhance connectivity in the Greater Manila Area.
Gov't steps up spending in April
The government increased its releases of cash allocations and state agencies were able to improve their spending rate as of April, latest data from the Department of Budget and Management DBM) showed.
GIN KINGS, BOLTS ON EVEN GROUND
In a situation like this where another misstep would lead to a 1-3 hole, it's time for Barangay Ginebra to unravel \"Playoff L.A.\"
Israel launches deadly Gaza strikes
Israel launched devastating air strikes on Gaza Thursday, while also expressing readiness to resume stalled talks on a truce and hostage release deal with Hamas to pause the war.
China war drills test ability to seize Taiwan
BEIJING (AFP) - Chinese warships and fighter jets surrounded Taiwan yesterday in the second day of drills that Beijing said were testing its ability to seize the self-ruled island, days after its new president was sworn in.
Ombudsman suspends Nueva Ecija governor
Amid probe on issuance of 205 illegal quarry permits
PDEA warns vs ‘magic mushrooms'
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) yesterday cautioned the public against the use, sale and distribution of “magic mushrooms,” which are being promoted by social media influencers for their supposed therapeutic benefits.
Senate ratifies bill amending gov't procurement reform law
The Senate has ratified a bill amending the government procurement reform law, one of the priority measures of the Marcos administration.