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PSC chair Ramirez, seven others face graft charges


MANILA, Philippines – The Office of the Ombudsman has found evidence to charge at least eight Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) officials, including chairman William Ramirez, for a P2.2-million bicycle anomaly. Assistant Ombudsman Mark Jalandoni said their findings supported claims by athletes to the 2007 Southeast Asian Games that the bicycles issued to them were below standard quality. “More than the amount, unquantifiable ang kahihiyan na naabot ng bansa natin (the embarrassment we get abroad is unquantifiable). We’re always embarrassed in sports competition abroad because of corruption," Jalandoni said in an interview on dzBB radio Sunday. He said those facing graft charges include Ramirez, PSC executive director Cesar Pradas, PSC bids and awards committee members Marilou Cantancio, Eduardo Clarissa, Simeon Rivera, PSC chief accountant Merlita Ibay, inspection committee officer Rufino Serdoncillo, and property officer Manuel Ibay. Jalandoni said they found overpricing and violations of the bidding process where there was no publication in newspapers. “Limited ang bidding process to favor ... may conflict of interest dahil pagmamay-ari ng member ng board ng Philippine Cycling Association (The bidding process was limited to favor someone. There was a conflict of interest because one of the parties involved is owned by a member of the board of the Philippine Cycling Association)," he said. He said the case is now undergoing preliminary investigation, and the parties "will be given a chance to explain." Earlier, the RP National Cycling Team filed a complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman over alleged conspiracy in the purchase of bicycle parts, supplies and equipment amounting to P2,239,130. – GMANews.TV

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