7 ex-Davao agri execs indicted

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales has ordered the filing of graft charges against former officials of the Department of Agriculture for not conducting a bidding for three projects funded by  the pork barrel of  Davao Oriental Rep. Joel Almario in 2005.

Former executive director Roger Chio, finance  chief Alma Mahinay, and  administrative officer Godofredo Ramos face four counts of graft.

Former technical director Romulo Palcon and agricultural engineering  chief Onofre Nugal face three and two counts of graft, respectively. Former chief agriculturist Jamie Bergonio and administrative officer Isagani Basco face one count  each.—VINCE F. NONATO