Lorega ex-treasurer charged for malversation

CEBU, Philippines - The Office of the Ombudsman Visayas has indicted a former barangay treasurer of Lorega for malversation of public funds.

The anti-graft office ordered the filing of the criminal case before the Regional Trial Court against Rolando Maloloy-on. Graft Investigator Corazon Arnado-Carillo found probable cause to indict Maloloy-on of the crime even if he was not directly responsible for the misappropriation of the government funds because he was allegedly negligent of his responsibility to the prejudice of the government.

It was found out during the investigation that Maloloy-on allowed an unauthorized person to issue receipts on his behalf. Maloloy-on reportedly entrusted his duties and responsibilities to a certain Edgar Nellas, who is now deceased.

On January 2, 2006 Nellas issued a receipt for barangay clearance in the amount of P50. However, it was found out that the real amount collected was P500, thereby misappropriating for his personal use the P450.

The anti-graft office ruled that Maloloy-on’s negligence has caused damaged and prejudice to the barangay. The ombudsman has recommended P20,000 bail for his temporary liberty. — THE FREEMAN