The Sandiganbayan Third Division on Monday, July 27, issued a warrant of arrest and a Hold Departure Order (HDO) against businessman and Uswag Ilonggo Party-list Rep. James “Jojo” Ang Jr. in connection with a graft case.

“After a careful review of the resolution and its supporting documents, as well as the records, the court finds that probable cause exists in this case, pursuant to Section 5, Rule 112 of the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure,” the anti-graft court wrote.

“Accordingly, let a warrant of arrest be ISSUED against accused James Ang Dit Ang, Jr. Let a Hold Departure Order (HDO) be ISSUED against the accused,” the document read.

On July 25, the Office of the Ombudsman announced that it had filed 14 counts of graft against Ang for reportedly retaining an interest in a construction company that obtained ₱214 million through contracts with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) during his time as congressman.

Ang received around ₱199 million from the firm while in Congress, according to Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano.

The Constitution, the Ombudsman stated, prohibits lawmakers from having financial interests in government contracts during their terms.