Former Malabon City Mayor Antolin Oreta III faces allegations of graft and corruption following a complaint filed with the Office of the Ombudsman by tricycle driver Romeo R. Dimaunahan from Barangay Longos, Dagat-Dagata. The complaint focuses on 42 missing e-trike units, valued at approximately P22.4 million. Atty. Francheska Laurent Feraren, an experienced litigator and anti-corruption advocate, provided procedural assistance to ensure the complaint was properly lodged.
Background: The E-Trike Initiative
In 2019, the Department of Energy introduced a nationwide program to modernize public transportation by distributing electric tricycles (e-trikes) to selected cities. Malabon City was allocated 175 units to promote eco-friendly, affordable transport and reduce carbon emissions, aligning with sustainable urban development goals.
Uncovering the Shortfall
A routine audit uncovered a troubling discrepancy: only 133 of the 175 e-trike units allocated to Malabon City were accounted for. The missing 42 units, valued at P22.4 million, raise concerns about the stewardship of these public assets, threatening the program’s objectives of accessibility and environmental sustainability.
Dimaunahan sought the expertise of Atty. Francheska Laurent Feraren to navigate the Ombudsman’s filing process. Feraren is a seasoned litigator and an advocate of good governance. Feraren’s role was strictly procedural, ensuring all requirements were met without influencing the complaint’s content. She emphasized the broader significance of such actions, stating:
“This situation reminds us that public funds are entrusted to officials for the community’s benefit. When discrepancies arise, it is not only a right but a duty for citizens to seek clarity and ensure that every peso serves its intended purpose. We are committed to supporting this process through due legal channels, as accountability is the foundation of public trust.”
Further elaborating on her specific contribution, Feraren added:
“My role was to assist Mr. Dimaunahan with the filing of his complaint, making sure every step was correctly followed. I believe the Ombudsman will do the right thing here and handle this matter with the fairness and diligence it deserves.”
Her statements highlight her procedural involvement and confidence in the Ombudsman’s ability to conduct a just investigation.
Next Steps: The Ombudsman’s Role
The Office of the Ombudsman will now investigate the claims, employing its authority to:
- Issue subpoenas for documents and testimonies
- Conduct in-depth inquiries
- Review financial and government records
- Summon officials for questioning
- Recommend suspensions or file charges if evidence supports such actions
The investigation will seek to determine the whereabouts of the missing e-trikes and assess any potential misconduct.
The Power of Citizen Oversight
Dimaunahan’s initiative demonstrates how citizens can hold officials accountable. By leveraging legal avenues, individuals bridge community concerns with institutional responses, particularly in regions affected by resource mismanagement.