Soldier faces malversation charges

CEBU, Philippines - A military man who failed to return various items owned by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is facing criminal charges.

The Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for the Military filed a case for malversation of public property against Capt. Expedito Agustin, former Responsible Supply Officer (RSO) of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, for his failure and refusal to return government-issued properties.

Graft investigator Marie Grace Pulayan-Roldan elevated the case to the Regional Trial Court (RTC) yesterday after finding probable cause based on the complaint filed by Editha Dichos, Supply Accountable Officer of the Central Command.

The graft investigator recommended the filing of the case after Agustin failed to execute a counter-affidavit to answer the allegations against him.

Dichos said Agustin was issued properties amounting to P66,388 when he was assigned as RSO.

The items which Agustin failed to return included seven units of VHF FM Radio ICOM with complete accessories worth P12,648 each; seven units of battery pack worth P4,420; one unit of linear amplifier worth P3,650; 1 unit of Omnidirectional Varelop antenna 4 stock worth P3,000 and three units of wall charger.

Despite repeated demands, Agustin did not return the items and failed to present his explanation.

Roldan recommended P40,000 bail for Agustin’s temporary liberty. (FREEMAN)