Ex-mayor indicted for non-remittance of GSIS premiums

MANILA, Philippines - The Office of the Ombudsman yesterday ordered the filing of criminal charges against a former town mayor in Maguindanao and two other officials for failing to remit the insurance premiums of the municipal employees.

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales said former Matanog mayor Nasser Imam, accountant Haron Ginta and treasurer Khaida Gampong would be charged for violating Republic Act 8291 or the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Act of 1997.

Investigation showed the municipal government under Imam’s administration did not remit the employees’ GSIS contributions from January to August 2012.

The ombudsman said the municipal officials could not escape liability, as they were involved in the collection of the employees’ contributions.

Under RA 8291, the heads of offices and the personnel involved in the collection are liable for the failure, refusal or delay in the remittance of dues to the GSIS.