Senate orders arrest of businessman linked to fertilizer scam

MANILA, Philippines - The Senate ordered the arrest of businessman Jaime “Jimmy” Paule yesterday for allegedly lying before a congressional inquiry into the P728-million fertilizer fund scam.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson said the Senate Blue Ribbon committee led by Sen. Richard Gordon has declared Paule in contempt for lying in his testimony when he said he had nothing to do with the distribution of the overpriced fertilizer to farmer recipients.

Paule allegedly acted as the go-between with Feshan Phils. Inc., the fertilizer distributor, and the government for the distribution of fertilizer.

Paule had denied knowing former agriculture undersecretary Jocelyn “Jocjoc” Bolante, the principal player in the fund scam.

Bolante was earlier linked to Paule by DA Undersecretary Belinda Gonzales, who testified that in late 2002, she attended a meeting at a hotel in Makati City where both were present.

Paule had insisted before the Senate that he did not know Bolante.

Lacson said the Blue Ribbon panel ordered the Senate sergeant at arms to have Paule under custody within 24 hours. – Jose Rodel Clapano