Tarlac Rep. Rivera faces graft raps over infra projects

MANILA, Philippines — Nine counts of graft charges have been filed against Tarlac Rep. Noel Rivera in connection with infrastructure projects in his district, the Office of the Ombudsman said yesterday. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said that one count each of the charges went to the first, second and fourth divisions of the Sandiganbayan. Two cases each went to the fifth, sixth and seventh divisions of the anti-graft court. At a press conference, Remulla called Rivera a “congtractor.” The term “congtractor” refers to members of the House of Representatives who own companies that engage in government contracts. Rivera and his wife, Concepcion town Vice Mayor Evelyn Rivera, reportedly own the Tarlac 3-G Construction & Development Corp. Section 3(h) of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act prohibits public officials from having direct or indirect financial or pecuniary interest in any government contract or transaction. The charges against the Riveras stemmed from complaints filed by Pyra Lucas, founder of the United Pilipino Against Crime and Corruption. Lucas alleged that the Rivera couple conspired to channel around P600 million in government contracts to their company. Lucas said Rivera has signed around 30 government contracts awarded to his company since 2018. Rivera has denied any involvement in corruption. He said he is ready to face the complaints filed against him. Information Source: Philstar Nation