Ex-solon wants graft case dismissed

Former Cotabato Rep. Gregorio Ipong has asked the antigraft Sandiganbayan to quash the graft and malversation cases filed against him over the alleged misuse of P4.9 million in pork barrel funds in 2007.

Ipong told the court’s Sixth Division that the Office of the Ombudsman violated his right to the speedy disposition of his case because the charges were filed 10 years after the alleged offenses took place.

“There was inordinate, capricious, vexatious and oppressive delay in violation of the constitutional right of accused to speedy disposition of the case,” the pleading read.

Ipong also challenged the sufficiency of the charges and claimed the Ombudsman violated his right to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusations.

Ipong denied being responsible for the selection of Aaron Foundation Philippines Inc. as partner for his livelihood projects.

He said his March 28, 2007 endorsement of the said foundation was “only recommendatory” and the implementing agency Technology and Livelihood Resource Center was “clearly not duty-bound to accept” the selection.