Compostela mayor accused of malversation, graft

Compostela councilor Tessa Cang filed criminal and administrative charges against Mayor Ritchie Wagas before the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas.

Cang, represented by her legal counsel Julius Ceasar Entise, accused Wagas of malversation, graft, dishonesty, gross misconduct and violating the Code of Ethical Standards for public officials and employees.

Wagas and other officials allegedly conspired with the members of the Bids and Awards Committee to award Jonathan Quirante of QM Builders a project for the construction of a lying-in clinic and birthing center.

She said that contrary to the existing rules and guidelines, Wagas, through his co-conspirators, caused the bidding of the said project despite the fact that the P4.6 million budget for the center has not been appropriated by Compostela’s municipal council.

Despite of the council’s denial of Wagas' request to approve the said amount, the latter allegedly proceeded to realign and disburse P1.2 million for the clinic.

“I welcome their move.  For me that is nothing but just a political harassment.  I will answer their accusations against me in the proper forum,” said Wagas, who added there were already funds appropriated before the project commenced last year.

Cang also requesting the anti-graft office for an immediate investigation and the preventive suspension of Wagas, municipal accountant Sylvia Malacad, municipal treasurer Lorenzo Almodiel, municipal budget officer Lourdes Salingua, municipal engineer Jonah Suacillo and BAC chairman Carmelo Tejero. -Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/BRP