Former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi Indicted Over Malampaya Takeover
MANILA — The Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP), led by former President Rodrigo Duterte, confirmed that its vice chairperson and acting chairman, former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, has been indicted by the Office of the Ombudsman. The indictment concerns the controversial 2019 takeover of the Malampaya gas project by an ally of Duterte.
Ferdinand Topacio, deputy spokesperson for the PDP, revealed that prosecutors filed one count of graft against Cusi and several others at the Sandiganbayan. This development marks a significant chapter in the long-running dispute surrounding the Malampaya gas field ownership.
Cusi Responds to Indictment
Alfonso Cusi told community members that he learned about the indictment only through media reports and has yet to receive any formal notice from the Ombudsman. His lawyer, Ruy Rondain, confirmed the indictment but noted they have not been furnished with any official documents regarding the charges.
Topacio, who has often represented allies of the Dutertes, emphasized that this case was previously dismissed by the Ombudsman due to lack of evidence against Cusi. The dismissal ruling issued last year is now under review by the Supreme Court through certiorari proceedings.
Supreme Court Proceedings Ongoing
“The reversal of the said resolution last year is now the subject of certiorari proceedings before the Supreme Court,” Topacio said. He added that out of respect for the judiciary and the principle of sub judice, the party refrains from commenting further on the case’s merits.
Though not representing Cusi personally in this matter, Topacio spoke on behalf of the PDP, which continues to stand firmly behind its acting chairman. “The PDP affirms our continued belief in the innocence of our acting chairman and reaffirms our faith and confidence in his leadership during these trying times,” he stated.
He also urged the Supreme Court to expedite the resolution of the case, expressing confidence that truth and justice will ultimately prevail, leading to Cusi’s exoneration.
Details of the Malampaya Takeover Case
According to reports from officials, the Ombudsman has ordered the indictment of Cusi along with four other former energy officials. The complaint alleges that Cusi granted “unwarranted benefits” to Udenna Corporation, headed by Dennis Uy, a close Duterte associate. This involved the sale of a 45 percent stake in Chevron Malampaya LLC and another 45 percent share in Shell Philippines related to the Malampaya gas field.
The Malampaya project, a critical energy resource for the Philippines, has long been under scrutiny due to ownership disputes and alleged irregularities. The indictment of Cusi adds another layer to the ongoing investigation into how control over this vital asset was transferred.
Awaiting Official Responses
As of this writing, the Office of the Ombudsman has not provided an official statement or confirmation regarding the indictment. Local leaders and community members remain attentive to further developments as the case unfolds at the Supreme Court and the Sandiganbayan.
For more news and updates on former energy secretary Alfonso Cusi, visit Filipinokami.com.
