DepEd exec faces graft over anomalous P2.9-M computer, software deal

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales ordered the filing of graft charges against a Department of Education (DepEd) official for his alleged anomalous procurement of computers and software in 2008.

The Office of the Ombudsman found probable cause to file graft raps against DepEd Region IX Director Walter Ablos for violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

During the Ombudsman’s investigation, it was found that Ablos approved the procurement of information technology equipment and software worth P2,998,100.00.

“There is nothing in the records that would prove that the bids and awards committee participated in the procurement … the procurement was only upon the direction of respondent Ablos,” the resolution read.

The Ombudsman said it had found “insufficient justification for the use of the alternative method of negotiated procurement” and the computers and software were already delivered even before the abstract of bids was issued.

The Commission on Audit lodged a notice of suspension against Ablos after finding out no public bidding was conducted and no relevant documents such as special allotment release order, advice of notice of cash allocation, statement of allotment, obligation and balances and COA audit observation memorandum were submitted.

COA then lifted its suspension on Aug. 8, 2012, after the account was already settled.

But the Office of the Ombudsman pursued the filing of charges against Ablos, saying “the interest of the COA is solely administrative, and its investigation does not foreclose the Ombudsman’s authority to investigate and determine whether there is a crime to be prosecuted for which a public official is answerable.”

Meanwhile, the Ombudsman dismissed the complaint against DepEd Region IX Chief Administrative Officer Elizabeth Tatel for “insufficiency of evidence.” RC