Ombudsman files raps vs Taguig mayor

MANILA, Philippines - The Office of the Ombudsman yesterday filed charges against Taguig City Mayor Laarni Cayetano, wife of Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, before the Sandiganbayan.

Cayetano was indicted along with city administrator Jose Montales for allegedly violating Article 143 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalizes persons who, by force or fraud, prevent the meetings of local legislative bodies.

The charges stemmed from their act of padlocking the Taguig City hall to prevent members of the Sangguniang Panglungsod from holding a legislative session five years ago.

Cayetano’s camp said the mayor is ready to face the charges filed against her before the Sandiganbayan. – Michael Punongbayan, Mike Frialde