2 ex-Sulu execs face charges

TWO former government officials in Sulu province in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm) are facing charges before the Sandiganbayan over Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (Saln) alteration last 2009.

The Office of the Ombudsman ordered to charge the couple, NurAna and Abdulwahid Sahidulla, for violation of the Republic Act 6713, otherwise known as Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Nur-Ana and Abdulwahid Sahidulla are also facing perjury charges following misrepresentations in their joint SALN for 2009, based on official website of the Ombudsman.

Abdulwahid served as mayor from 1988- 1998 and 2004-2013, while Nur-Ana served as Banguingui, Sulu mayor from 1998-2004; Sulu vice-governor from 20042010; and a member of the House of Representatives from 2010 to 2013.

The investigation conducted by the Ombudsman in Mindanao found that the accused failed to declare the following properties in their SALN:

Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Strada, and a 1,500 sq. m. property in Baliwasan in Zamboanga City.

Republic Act 6713 states that public officials and employees have an obligation to accomplish and submit declarations under oath of, and the public has the right to know their SALN and business interests including those of their spouses.

The Ombudsman also explained that perjury arises when there is a false declaration on material information that is required to be made under oath.