Soldier charged for malversation

CEBU, Philippines - A military man was charged for malversation of public property after he failed to turn over properties worth P570,300 when he transferred to another military unit.

 The Office of the Ombudsman for the Military approved the filing of a case against 1st Lieutenant Marion P. Candava for violation of Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code.

Candava, the supply officer of the 6th Special Forces Battalion, Special Forces Regiment, Special Operations Command, PA, in Barangay La Granja, La Carlota City, “took advantage” of his position by not turning over several sets of radio communication equipment (radios, antennaes, batteries and chargers).

Graft Investigation and Prosecution Officer Jamila Cruz-Sarga recommended that the complaint be elevated in court.

The resolution was approved by Deputy Ombudsman for the Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices Emilio Gonzales and Tanodbayan Merceditas Gutierrez.

A bail of P40,000 was recommended for Candava’s temporary liberty.

Editha M. Dichos, supply accountable officer, of the Camp Lapu-Lapu in Barangay Apas, Cebu City filed the complaint against Candava.

 Dichos alleged that based on the records in her office, Candava received all the items and failed to return them upon his transfer to another military unit.

 Candava received the government properties in his official capacity as Regional Supply Officer but failed to return them over to Dichos when he transferred to Fort Magsaysay in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.

 The last demand upon him was made on October 25, 2005.

Candava failed to file a counter-affidavit.   (FREEMAN NEWS)