Ombudsman dismisses DPWH-CAR exec for extortion

MANILA, Philippines - The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the dismissal from government service of a ranking official of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) for corruption and extortion.

In an 11-page decision signed by Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, DPWH-CAR assistant regional director Daniel Domingo was found guilty of grave misconduct and violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees for demanding and receiving money from Camia Construction in connection with projects awarded by the agency.

In an affidavit, Jocelyn Fawas, cashier and cost engineer of Camia Construction, said she came to know of the DPWH official’s extortion when, in six transactions from January 2005 to July 2005, her employer, engineer Vito Loyon, ordered her to deposit various amounts totaling P211,000 in the bank account of Domingo. 

Fawas presented photocopies of deposit slips, a check deposited in the bank account of Domingo, and disbursement vouchers of Camia Construction.

Records show that Domingo chaired the DPWH-CAR’s bids and awards committee that awarded government projects to Camia Construction.

In addition to dismissal from the service, Domingo was meted the accessory penalties of perpetual disqualification to hold public office and forfeiture of all his retirement benefits.