Sandiganbayan acquits Elenita Binay of graft, malversation

Elenita Binay —file photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan has cleared former Makati Mayor Elenita Binay of graft and malversation charges over the purchase of hospital beds and other medical equipment worth P45 million in 2000 and 2001.

In a decision handed down on Thursday, the Sandiganbayan Special Third Division said the prosecution failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

Likewise acquitted of graft and malversation charges were: Ernesto Aspillaga, former head of the Makati general services department; Dulce Cruz, city accountant III; and Luz Yamane Garcia, city treasurer.

Two employees of the Makati City Hall were found guilty of two counts of violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. They were, however, cleared of malversation charges.

Supply officer Conrado Pamintuan and administrative officer Jaime de los Reyes, both members of the canvass committee, were sentenced to indeterminate imprisonment of six years and one month minimum to eight years maximum per count. They were also barred from holding public office.

The graft and malversation cases stemmed from the purchase through negotiated contract of 172 hospital beds, 202 bedside cabinets, 10 intensive care unit beds and four orthopedic beds for P36 million.

Amended information of the case said the contract was awarded to Apollo Medical Equipment and Supplies without justification as to why no competitive public bidding was conducted.

Associate Justices Ronald Moreno, Oscar Herrera Jr. and Alex Quiroz concurred while presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje Tang gave her concurring and dissenting opinion. INQ