Worker indicted for estafa charges

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Prosecutor's Office has indicted a former employee of Brilliant Metal Craft and Machine for allegedly misappropriating the sum of money given by his employer for the purchase of materials and other expenses.

Associate Prosecution Attorney II Jennifer Karen Alo-Leyson held Jubard Gerolaga for trial for a violation of estafa.

"…on the basis of the sworn statement and other evidence submitted before me there is reasonable found to believe that the crime of estafa has been committed and that the accused herein is probably guilty thereof," read the document signed by Leyson.

Leyson recommended P12,000 bail for the accused temporary liberty.

Dr. Edward Dampor Sr., owner of Brilliant Metal Craft, alleged that Gerolaga was his employee who was tasked, among others, to visit different medical pipeline installations and make such necessary purchases.

He said he gave money to the accused but the latter failed to account the sum of P17,500. Despite repeated demands made upon the accused, he added, the latter failed to comply with his obligation. Thus, he filed the complaint.

Leyson then summoned Gerolaga to file his counter-affidavit to answer the allegations filed against him, but the latter failed.

Leyson resolved the complaint based on the evidence of the complainant.

"As it appears that a demand has been made to the respondent, the continued failure to account gives rise to the circumstantial evidence at misappropriation. Thus, probable cause exists to indict respondent for estafa with respect to the total amount of P17,500 that he allegedly received," the resolution read.  (FREEMAN)