The Office of the Ombudsman filed 14 counts of graft on Saturday, July 25, against USWAG Ilonggo Representative James “Jojo” Ang Jr. over his alleged links to a construction firm that secured millions in government infrastructure deals. According to the anti-graft agency, the lawmaker maintained a financial stake in the private company while holding public office.
The anti-graft court Sandiganbayan received the filings just two days before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 4th State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 27. Investigators lodged the formal complaints under Section 3(h) of Republic Act No. 3019, also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. Court records show that the filed charges are bailable.
The agency's statement noted that the firm was paid nearly ₱199 million for those projects while the lawmaker occupied his congressional seat.
The Ombudsman emphasized that constitutional restrictions on lawmakers and government contracts leave no room for ambiguity.
Because the 14 counts filed against Representative Ang are bailable, the lawmaker may post bail before the Sandiganbayan while awaiting arraignment and trial proceedings.
What specific charges were filed against Representative James “Jojo” Ang Jr.?
The Office of the Ombudsman filed 14 counts of graft for alleged violations of Section 3(h) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
Which court is handling the cases?
The cases were filed with the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan on Saturday, July 25.
Are the graft charges bailable?
Yes, the Office of the Ombudsman confirmed that these cases are bailable.
How will these graft charges affect the legislative duties of Representative Ang as Congress resumes its sessions?
Worth a look