Ex-SAF chief liable in 2009 helicopter deal - SC

The Supreme Court (SC) reversed the ruling of the Court of Appeals (CA) that cleared former Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) chief Leocadio Santiago Jr. over the purchase of three helicopters in 2009.

- NILLICENT BAUTISTA

In a 14-page notice published on Wednesday, the SC’s First Division granted the petition of the Office of the Ombudsman, which challenged the 2014 CA ruling that acquitted Santiago.

The case stemmed from 2008 when the PNP planned to purchase three helicopters through public bidding. However, after three unsuccessful biddings, the PNP decided to forego public bidding and instead negotiate with potential sellers.

Two competitors – Manila Aerospace Products and Training (MAPTRA) and BEELINE – offered their proposals. However, the two negotiations collapsed as both fell short of the PNP’s requirements for three fully equipped helicopters.