DAVAO CITY (July 18 ) — The Sandiganbayan convicted Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur, vice-mayor Allan Damas for appointing his first cousin to be the Municipal treasurer of his town,
Damas was serving as municipal mayor when he appointed a certain Nellie Toledo, his first cousin as municipal treasurer.
It was found out that Damas endorsed three applicants — Toledo, Claude Genetiano, and Elvie Unabia — to the Bureau of Local Government Finance for the post of municipal treasurer in an undated letter.
As recommending authority, Damas issued a certification in favor of Toledo, even if he knew his cousin is disqualified to assume the position.
Damas was sentenced to imprisonment to a minimum of six years and one month, to a maximum of eight years, with perpetual disqualification from holding public office.
In its decision dated June 22, the Sixth Division found Vice Mayor Allan Damas “guilty beyond reasonable doubt” for violation of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
Records show that in July 2006, Damas appointed Toledo, his first cousin, as Municipal Treasurer.
During the trial, Prosecutors presented a certification dated 14 July 2006, signed by Damas as recommending authority, falsely claiming that he is not related to Toledo within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity.
In the Sandiganbayan’s Decision, it was stated that “the accused recommended Toledo for the position of Municipal Treasurer of Kumalarang, and signed and issued a certification that Toledo is not related to him, as recommending authority, within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity. Without such recommendation and certification, Toledo would not have been considered, much less appointed, for the position, in view of the prohibition under Sec. 79 of R.A. No. 7160 [Local Government Code].”-ezc/NewsLine.ph
