Electric coop exec charged with graft

MANILA, Philippines - Graft charges have been filed before the Sandiganbayan against Benguet Electric Cooperative (Beneco) general manager Gerardo Versoza.

According to the case filed by the Office of the Ombudsman on Jan. 13, Kenneth Dale Mangaoang, the late mayor of Balbalan, awarded to Beneco the contract for the supply of equipment and materials for the town’s electrification project without public bidding or approval from the municipal council.

Graft probers said Mangaoang took advantage of his position to give “unwarranted benefit, advantage or preference” to Verzosa who is his brother-in-law.

“Beneco’s line of business does not involve the supply or delivery of electrical equipment or materials, “ the ombudsman said.