Ampatuan sentenced to reclusion perpetua for P393M malversation

Former Maguindanao governor Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan has been found guilty and sentenced to reclusion perpetua for malversation involving P393 million pocketed from public funds intended for farm-to-market road projects in 2009.

The Sandiganbayan Third Division also convicted Ampatuan on a separate charge of violating the anti-graft and corrupt practices law, imposing an additional sentence of eight years imprisonment and perpetual disqualification from holding public offices.

A review of evidence shows that Ampatuan allowed cash advances of up to P393 million without implementing 22 farm-to-market road projects, which also did not undergo required public bidding.

Two co-accused, provincial treasurer Oscar Bandila and provincial accountant John Dollosa, remain at large while another, auditor Danny Calib, was acquitted by the court citing lack of evidence against him.

As restitution, Ampatuan must pay P786 million to the government with 6% interest annually from the finality of the decision until fully paid.