The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is preparing to submit a referral to the Office of the Ombudsman against former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco and his wife, Rowena, over properties allegedly linked to the couple.
NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag said investigators had established links between the properties and information contained in the affidavit of Rodolfo Gracio Jr.
Among the properties under investigation are two houses in Valle Verde, Pasig City, allegedly owned by the Velasco couple. The properties, located along Sampaca and Sampaguita streets, were among those raided by the NBI in August following intelligence reports that high-powered firearms were allegedly being kept in the area.
The two houses are also among the seven so-called cash houses identified by an individual described as a former security aide of the former House speaker.
The NBI is also looking into the couple's alleged links to Sara Resort and Cabana in Torrijos, Marinduque. Records from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) indicate that the resort is operated by 888 World Star Corp., where the Velasco couple allegedly served as principal incorporators and held a combined 60% stake in the company.
The couple was also identified as principal incorporators of Amara Resort and Villa, located in the same municipality, with an alleged 80% shareholding in the company.
Although the original shareholdings were transferred to third parties in 2023, the couple reportedly remained listed as stockholders, with Rowena Velasco serving as vice president.
Matibag said the NBI's fact-finding investigation remains ongoing to determine when and how the properties were acquired and the source of funds used to purchase them.
The planned referral to the Ombudsman forms part of the bureau's continuing efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the properties and determine whether further legal action is warranted.
