Gadian claims to have proof vs AFP officers

MANILA, Philippines – The whistleblower in the alleged misuse of funds for the Balikatan military exercises claimed yesterday to have documentary evidence to pin down the military officers whom she had linked to the supposed anomaly.

Speaking to reporters at Adamson University in Manila, Navy Lt. SG Nancy Gadian, who is under the wing of Catholic priests and nuns, said she would be ready to file formal charges against persons who allegedly pocketed part of the P46 million for the joint exercises.

However, Harry Roque, counsel for Gadian’s sister, said Gadian could not give a copy of her affidavit and other documents because it would violate the confidentiality agreement related to her petition for a writ of amparo before the Court of Appeals.

Gadian accused retired Lt. Gen. Eugenio Cedo, former chief of Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command, of receiving P818,500 and P100,000 from the Balikatan funds.

“It can be seen in the report signed by General Cedo that indeed, during his stint, they received P818,500,” she said.

“The money did not reach the participants of Exercise Balikatan 2007. Aside from the P818,500, there is another P100,000 given to them, which was not cleared. I have documents to prove what I am saying.”

Gadian said aside from Cedo, two other military officers were also allegedly involved in the supposed anomaly.

Of the P4 million intended for Balikatan’s civil military operations, only P2.3 million had been released, she added.

Gadian said the lead planner for the CMO was able to withdraw P2.7 million.

“Actually what was withdrawn by the CMO lead event planner at GHQ (general headquarters) was P2.7 million, but what we got was only P2.3 million. Where is the P400,000?” she asked, wondering what happened to the balance of the amount.

Gadian refused to name the CMO lead planner as she has identified the military officer in the affidavit she is set to file in court.

Cedo has since denied Gadian’s allegations.

Gadian was ordered arrested for desertion and insubordination after she volunteered to provide the Senate with documents to support her claim against Cedo.