Sandiganbayan Convicts Former Misamis Occidental Congressman for Fund Misuse
The Sandiganbayan has convicted former Misamis Occidental congressman Loreto Leo S. Ocampos and two associates in a high-profile case involving the misuse of P2.1 million from the priority development assistance fund (PDAF) in 2013. This case centers on the former lawmaker’s illegal handling of PDAF, a government fund intended for development projects.
Alongside Ocampos, private individuals Josefina C. Candole and Jamie Ann P. Linsangan were found guilty of graft, malversation of public funds, and falsification of documents. The court’s decision was handed down on June 10 by Associate Justice Edgardo M. Caldona, with the support of Presiding Justice Geraldine Faith A. Econg and Associate Justice Arthur O. Malabaguio.
Lengthy Prison Terms and Heavy Penalties
The convicted individuals face prison sentences ranging from six to ten years for graft. They were also permanently barred from holding public office. Additionally, the court ordered them to return the full amount of P2.1 million to the national treasury.
For malversation, the sentences range from a minimum of four years, two months, and one day to a maximum of ten years and one day. They must also pay a fine equivalent to the misappropriated amount of P2.1 million. Regarding falsification of documents, the convicted were sentenced to between two years, four months, and one day and eight years and one day, plus a fine of P5,000.
Fake Livelihood Project Exposed
The prosecution revealed that the accused unilaterally chose and endorsed Rich Islas de Filipinas Foundation, Inc. (RIDFFI) as the “project partner” to distribute 350 business starter kits worth P2.1 million. These kits were supposed to support livelihood projects involving Basilan Native Chicken.
However, the court ruled that the livelihood development project was “altogether a sham.” It found that Ocampos, Candole, and Linsangan fabricated the appearance of project completion. The court noted that Ocampos maintained control over his PDAF funds, while Candole and Linsangan directly handled the project’s implementation, acting as conduits for the misused funds.
Deceptive Scheme Proven by Prosecution
The prosecution successfully proved that the trio’s combined efforts enabled a deceptive scheme to execute a fake project. This allowed them to misappropriate public funds for their personal gain. Local leaders noted that such corruption undermines public trust and harms the communities meant to benefit from these projects.
The Sandiganbayan’s ruling sends a strong message against the misuse of government funds and reinforces accountability among public officials and their partners.
For more news and updates on public fund misuse, visit Filipinokami.com.