Ex-OWWA chief, 2 others face graft raps

MANILA, Philippines — Graft charges were filed yesterday against former Overseas Workers Welfare Administration chief Arnell Ignacio and two other OWWA officials in connection with the allegedly anomalous land acquisition deal amounting to P1.4 billion.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac said the complaints were filed against Ignacio and two former OWWA deputy administrators before the Office of the Ombudsman.

Also charged were six people who sold the property to OWWA, Cacdac said.

Based on the results of an investigation, Cacdac said checks were signed by the OWWA officials prior to the deed of sale.

“That’s among the other things that bolstered and supported our case,” Cacdac said, adding that other details were uncovered during the probe.

According to Cacdac, the filing of the case against the former OWWA officials was part of President Marcos’ call for accountability in public service.

“We will hold ranking public officials accountable for their actions that violated the anti-graft and corrupt practices law,” Cacdac said.

Ignacio was removed from his post in May because the OWWA board did not authorize the land deal.