The Sandiganbayan has affirmed its decision that convicted former Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Disbursing Officer Serda I. Hassan-Bangsa of graft in the irregular purchase of rescue kits in 2003.
Bangsa and former Head of ARMM-Manila Liaison Office Socorro Franco Natividad have been sentenced to six to 10 years imprisonment, with perpetual disqualification from holding public office. Bangsa filed a motion to reconsider the decision.
The Sandiganbayan’s decision also ordered them to pay Geneve S.A. Philippines P5 million representing the balance of the purchase price of the GPI Rescue Kits.
They were charged in the purchase of 60 medical emergency kits worth P275,000 each or a total of P16.5 million from Geneve S.A. Philippines Inc. in 2003.
Bangsa and Natividad, together with then ARMM Gov. Parouk S. Hussin and Acting Accountant Ricardo B. Luna, paid 50 percent of the P16.5 million purchase price even without public bidding. For lack of funds, ARMM incurred an outstanding obligation of P8.25 million.
In her motion for reconsideration, Bangsa pointed out that she acted in good faith while performing her official duties, and that no injury was caused to the government.
Her motion was denied by the anti-graft court which pointed out that the arguments she raised were “mere rehash and a repetition of the same issues and arguments which have already been considered and passed upon by the Court in its decision dated March 22."
"To reiterate, the totality of evidence shows that accused Bangsa and her other co-accused conspired to process and approve the disbursement vouchers and purchase order for the down payment of the GPI Rescue Kits to Geneve without public bidding, available funds, and despite incomplete documents," stated the resolution written by Associate Justice Karl B. Miranda.
Associate Justices Sarah Jane T. Fernandez and Justice Kevin Narce B. Vivero concurred in the ruling.