Ombudsman investigating 2 solons' alleged construction business ties

The Office of the Ombudsman is investigating two lawmakers over alleged graft for allegedly owning or having ties to construction business while being a public official, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said.

Clavano said the two lawmakers under probe over alleged violation of Section 3.h of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act are Uswag Ilonggo party-list Rep. Jojo Ang and Tarlac Third District Rep. Noel Rivera.

“The complaint against them involves conflict of interest, a violation of Republic Act 3019. Lawmakers are prohibited from owning a construction firm because members of Congress have influence over the budget,” Clavano said in a press conference.

“Any reward to a construction company that is under their name, or can be traced to them via beneficial ownership is a violation of that conflict of interest rule. Napakasimple po. Napakasimple ng rule na yan,” Clavano added.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier said that at least eight "congtractors" are already under investigation by the Ombudsman over their alleged involvement in the flood control mess.

GMA News Online is trying to get comments from the camps of the two lawmakers and will publish them as soon as they are available. —LDF, GMA News