DOJ summons Singson

The Department of Justice (DOJ) will deliver a summons to Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis "Chavit" Singson today to appear before state prosecutors and answer plunder and graft charges filed against him by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

Chief State Prosecutor Jovencito Zuño said they will subpoena Singson and his 15 co-respondents named in the complaint, which stemmed from their alleged involvement in the misappropriation of P130 million in tobacco excise taxes.

"The preliminary investigation will start on Dec. 1, the same date for the submission of counter-affidavits by the respondents," Zuño said.

He clarified, however, that the findings of the DOJ will still have to be reviewed by the Office of the Ombudsman.

Zuño, who heads a three-man investigating panel, said they will try to finish the case in 45 days, and come up with a ruling based on the evidence.

Singson earlier said he was prepared to answer all charges filed by the NBI once a subpoena is issued.

Singson had earlier admitted the misappropriation of Ilocos Sur’s share in tobacco taxes, but insisted that President Estrada also be indicted for being a beneficiary of the P130-million fund.

The governor claimed he was merely taking orders from the President and that the money trail could be traced from a Land Bank of the Philippines branch in Ilocos Sur to Malacañang.

Respondents in the NBI charge sheet include Vice Governor Deogracias Savellano, provincial accountant Carolyn Pilar, treasurer Antonio Gundran, Dr. Ernie Mendoza of the general service office, businessman Nuccio Saverio, and private individuals Alma Alfaro, Eleuterio Tan and Delia Rajas.