Former Rep. Gullas: Farming fund for Minglanilla intact

CEBU, Philippines - After being dragged into the multi-billion pork barrel scam, former first district representative Eduardo Gullas released a certification that the P5 million fund for organic farming for high value crops in Minglanilla, Cebu is “unspent and intact.”

“The municipal treasurer, Mr. Wilfredo Alidon and the municipal accountant Ms. Brenda D. Java issued a certification that the amount of five million pesos (P5, 000, 000.00) was credited to the depository account of the Municipality of Minglanilla with the Land Bank of the Philippines as Financial Assistance for Organic Farming for high value crops, and has not been disbursed as of June 3, 2014,” Gullas said in a statement.

The amount was financial assistance for the project of former congressman Gullas.

“This certification belied the unfounded allegation that a P2.1 million rebate was given. Not a peso of the amount was withdrawn or given away,” he added.

It was earlier reported that Gullas’ grandson and current first district Representative Gerald “Samsam” Gullas was included by Janet Lim-Napoles on the list of lawmakers who are reportedly linked to the pork barrel scam. 

However, the camp of Napoles apologized to the young Gullas, saying that it was his grandfather who they were referring to on the list.

But former representative Gullas belied the allegation.

In his press statement, he said that he has faithfully and honestly been serving the government in various capacities for nearly 40 years, and that he is confident his grandson will continue the family’s tradition and legacy of integrity, honor and dedication in public service. —  (FREEMAN)