Ombudsman gives probers 15 days to decide whether to file raps vs Pichay

MANILA, Philippines - Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales has given prosecutors in her office 15 days to determine if graft and corruption charges should be filed against former Surigao del Sur congressman Prospero Pichay.

Morales ordered the creation of another panel of prosecutors to review the findings of the Department of Justice (DOJ).

 Pichay was accused of fund misuse during his stint as chairman of the board of trustees of the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).

The money was used to buy Express Savings Bank Inc. (ESBI), a private banking institution in 2009, without the approval of the Monetary Board, allegedly in violation of the General Appropriations Act.

The DOJ conducted an investigation into the incident and recommended the filing of charges for graft, malversation, and violation of banking laws against Pichay and acting LWUA administrator Daniel Landingin.

Morales has ordered a team headed by deputy special prosecutor Cornelio Somido and Field Investigation Office director Olivia Roxas to review the findings and submit a report to her.

The Office of the Ombudsman ordered Pichay’s dismissal in July last year.