Intramuros exec axed for graft

Malacañang has ordered the dismissal of Intramuros Administration (IA) chief Dominador Ferrer Jr. for irregularities over the relocation of squatters and the pay parking scheme inside the Walled City.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, acting on the authority of President Arroyo, approved the recommendation of the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission (PAGC) to dismiss Ferrer.

In a 12-page decision, the PAGC declared Ferrer guilty of violating the Code of Conduct of Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees and the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act for illegally collecting P3 million in cash advances.

Ferrer, however, pointed out there was nothing irregular in evicting the squatters from Maestranza Compound in Intramuros, claiming that he had complied with all the government requirements and regulations in driving out illegal settlers in the area.

“Just like other cases where a decision has been reached, I am entitled to ask for reconsideration. I hope and pray that the case will be reviewed and hopefully they will see the light and I will be cleared of the charges,” Ferrer added.

Ferrer came under fire from his employees, who have accused their boss of issuing cash advances since 2004 allegedly to defray the cost of trucking and other services necessary for the relocation of squatters from the Maestranza Compound.

Aside from releasing the cash advances to himself, it was also learned that Ferrer procured trucking services from another company and paid in cash despite the IA having a standing contract for such services.

According to PAGC, Ferrer contracted trucking services without appropriate bidding and resorted to cash advances “with dubious circumstances.”

“There is also something doubtful about the payroll submitted to the Commission on Audit, particularly the way persons listed, presumably people from informal settler communities, signed using different pens. It is quite unusual for such persons under their circumstances to have ready pens available,” PAGC noted.

In May 2004, Ferrer also entered into a new P5.9 million pay parking management contract in an effort to supposedly rationalize vehicular traffic flow in Intramuros and use the streets as parking spaces.

Prior to the signing of the contract, the supposed winning bidder, R.R. Alberto Construction, demanded a higher offer but finally agreed to a contract price that was 50 percent lower.

PAGC said the contract price entered into by Ferrer proved to be disadvantageous for the government and no requisite bidding was held.

“Evidence on record supported inference that the revision of the contract was premeditated and therefore the respondent (Ferrer) must he held accountable,” the PAGC said.

PAGC also recommended the forfeiture of Ferrer’s retirement benefits and cancellation of his civil service eligibility.