Former Antique solon indicted for P10-M graft

State prosecutors have formally charged former Antique Rep. Exequiel Javier in the Sandiganbayan for awarding a P9.9-million pork barrel-funded project to a private individual.

Javier and nine officials of Patnongon municipality were slapped with one count of violating Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which is giving unwarranted advantage to a private party.

Indicted incumbent officials include current Mayor Johnnyflores Bacongallo (then vice mayor) and Councilor Felix Gregorio Barrientos.

The other coaccused were former Patnongon Mayor Henry Mondejar and Councilors Gemma Cepeda, Thomas Bacaoco, Al Brian Crespo, Rene Philip Cayetano, Teopisto Estaris Jr. and Erika Orcasitas.

The lone private individual charged was Efren Esclavilla, the board chair of Greater Antique Development Cooperative.