Graft raps vs. DPWH exec ‘pure political harassment,’ says lawmaker wife

Quezon Representative Helen Tan on Thursday defended her husband, a regional director of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), from allegations of graft and corruption and partisanship, saying these had no basis.

“The filing of ostentatious display of wealth charges along with allegations of partisan political activities against my husband…  smacks of pure political harassment,” Tan said in a statement.

“It is not only without basis but one which we have been forewarned about, especially because it is beginning to look a lot like 2022 elections,” she added.

On Thursday, an incumbent councilor in Lopez, Quezon, filed a complaint against DPWH Region I Director Ronnel Tan before the Office of the Ombudsman for grave misconduct, corrupt practices, conduct unbecoming a public officer, and involvement in partisan political activities.

In his complaint, Councilor Arkie Manuel Yulde mentioned a recent incident where Ronnel threw a party at his residence in Quezon and “threw cash in the air” for his guests.

“I decry this move by certain political sectors who are out to besmirch the good name and reputation of our family who have done nothing but to be deeply involved in the lives of our people through the delivery of meaningful public service,” Tan said.

The congresswoman said she welcomed the opportunity to prove the charges wrong in the appropriate forum.

“The trumped-up charges being hurled against Engr. Tan merely shows how desperate our political enemies have become during the past weeks and months, particularly because I have been perceived to be gearing for a gubernatorial run next elections,” she said.

Tan also said that she believed the charges were “orchestrated efforts” of a political dynasty in Quezon, adding that she was recently “unceremoniously” removed as chairperson of the Committee on Health.

“I cannot help but think that these charges are not isolated but part of the orchestrated efforts of a political dynasty in the province to weaken my resolve to bring the brand of our public service throughout the entire Province of Quezon,” Tan said.

“I hope that my unceremonious removal as Chairperson of the Committee on Health of the House of Representatives just a few weeks ago for no particular reason at all is still fresh in the minds of the public,” she added. — Joahna Lei Casilao/BM, GMA News