Ombudsman affirms indictment of Pangasinan gov, dismissed execs
Pangasinan Gov. Amado Espino Jr. Photo from pangasinan.gov.ph
DAGUPAN CITY—The Ombudsman affirmed its decision indicting Pangasinan Governor Amado Espino Jr. and several others for violating the anti-graft and corrupt practices law for their alleged role in magnetite (black sand) extraction activities involving unqualified contractors.
The black sand mining took place at the coastal villages of Lingayen Gulf, on government land, which the provincial government was developing for tourism.
READ: Ombudsman action gives complainant hope vs Pangasinan governor Espino
The joint order, signed by Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales last January 11, denied the motions for reconsideration filed by Espino, dismissed Pangasinan Provincial Administrator Rafael Baraan, dismissed Provincial Housing and Urban Development Officer Alvin Bigay and officers of the companies contracted for the said black sand mining.
Baraan said he and the governor could not comment until they receive a copy of the decision. With a report from Gabriel Cardinoza, Inquirer Northern Luzon/RAM
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