Ombudsman eyes prosecution on 12-15 ‘congtractors’

Twelve to 15 congressmen are facing prosecution for doubling as contractors for government infrastructure projects in violation of the law, according to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla.

- By ELIZABETH MARCELO

At a briefing on Friday, Remulla said the 12 to 15 lawmakers comprised the “low-lying fruits” among the 67 “contractors” being investigated. The term “contractors” used by Remulla is short for congressmen-contractors.

“Of the 67, after studying the list, the low-lying fruits there that can be easily proved will be 12 to 15, I think. For the rest, we have to weave more data and evidence. I’m just being realistic,” Remulla said.

“Because while we know that they were involved, how can we prove it? Our job is to prove (the allegations) in court. That’s the job of the Special Prosecutor under the direction of the ombudsman," he added.

Remulla did not give names but he told reporters that cases would definitely be filed soon with the Sandiganbayan.

Prior to his appointment as ombudsman, the then justice chief revealed ongoing investigation of 100 to 200 people involved in the flood control project anomalies nationwide.