Ex-N. Cotabato lawmaker faces new ‘pork’ raps

Former North Cotabato congressman Gregorio Ipong is facing new charges of graft and malversation of public funds in connection with the pork barrel scam.

Based on the complaints recently filed before the Sandiganbayan, Ipong “unilaterally chose and endorsed” Aaron Foundation Philippines Inc. (AFPI) as his “partner” in the implementation of livelihood projects amounting to P9.6 million in 2007, in violation of Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act.

Graft probers said AFPI was “unaccredited and unqualified” to undertake the projects because it had no business permits from 2004 to 2009. They said the projects were non-existent and never implemented.

The ombudsman said Ipong also failed to submit liquidation reports despite demands by the Commission on Audit.

Former officials of the Technology Resource Center – director general Antonio Ortiz, deputy director general Dennis Cunanan and chief accountant Marivic Jover – were named respondents in the cases.

Alfredo Ronquillo, president of AFPI, was included in the charge sheets.

The ombudsman set the bond at P70,000 each.

Ipong was dismissed in November 2016 over alleged misuse of pork barrel funds amounting to P10 million also in 2007.