Mayor Darwin Estrañero Cleared of Graft Charges of Overpricing Amidst COVID-19

The ombudsman junks graft and corruption charges against Mayor Darwin Estrañero for the alleged overpricing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ombudsman Dismisses Graft Case Against Tabuk City Mayor

In a recent development, the Office of the Ombudsman has granted Mayor Darwin Estrañero’s motion for partial reconsideration, dismissing the graft complaint filed against him. This decision allows Mayor Estrañero to resume his duties starting April 1.

The dismissal comes after an 11-page consolidated order from the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman’s order mentioned the lack of evidence for overpricing allegations. These were related to the city government’s purchases during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier, the Ombudsman recommended charges against the mayor for alleged overpricing. However, charges against members of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) were dismissed. The decision was anchored in a Supreme Court ruling, emphasizing the need for specific comparisons and proof of overpricing.

The order highlighted the lack of evidence demonstrating comparisons of prices offered by different suppliers and the absence of clear proof that the purchased goods matched those listed in the relevant circulars. It acknowledged the challenges posed by the pandemic, including price surges and market manipulation.

In his defense, Mayor Estrañero presented approvals from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC). And it emphasized the transparency of the procurement process. He argued that the urgent need for medical supplies justified the procurement decisions made during the pandemic.

The mayor asserted that the contracts entered into during the pandemic saved thousands of lives. He relied in good faith on the expertise of the BAC members. He emphasized the challenges of procuring supplies amidst a shortage and price increases.

A Victory For Transparency Amidst COVID-19 Overpricing

Overall, the dismissal of the graft charges against Mayor Estrañero represents a victory for transparency and the urgent procurement of essential supplies during a crisis. It underscores the complexities faced by local governments in navigating procurement challenges during emergencies while ensuring accountability and adherence to procurement laws.

Despite the successful pursuit of development, the mayor is concerned with the increasing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the city and the province.

Source: The Manila Times