Ombudsman files graft charges vs. lawmakers linked to flood control mess

The Office of the Ombudsman has filed before the Sandiganbayan 14 counts of graft against USWAG Ilonggo party-list Rep. James Ang Jr., while former Sultan Kudarat 2nd District Rep. Arnulfo Go and three others face two counts of graft and two counts of malversation in connection with alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

Ang was previously included in the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) recommendation to the Ombudsman to be investigated for possible plunder and bribery in connection with billions of pesos worth of infrastructure projects from 2016 to 2024, along with Zaldy Co.

ICI chairperson Andres Reyes Jr. previously referred to Ang as among the possible "cong-tractors."

“These so-called cong-tractors are those members of Congress or their partners or family members who own construction firms that receive project awards or obtain contracts from the DPWH,” Reyes said last November.

In a press statement in November, Ang said he was confident he would be able to clear his name.

“My conscience is clear. I am confident that I will be able to clear my name soon. My resolve for truth to come out is stronger and clearer,” Ang said.

“In my three years in public service, I have never used my position in the government for my own interest and to profit in any way. I hold the trust of the Ilonggos strongly, and will never betray the faith of my kasimanwas in me as their representative in Uswag Ilonggo party-list since 2022,” he added.

Ang also said he was ready to face the charges against him.

“I stand firm on what is true and just. I am ready to face this case in the proper forum,” he said further. —VAL, GMA News