The Sandiganbayan has ordered the 90-day preventive suspension of Uswag Ilonggo Party-list Rep. James “Jojo” Ang Jr. while he faces graft charges over his alleged financial interest in a construction firm that secured government contracts.
In a resolution promulgated Monday, September 21, the anti-graft court’s Sixth Division ordered Ang suspended from the House of Representatives and any other public position he may hold.
“ACCORDINGLY, the Court hereby orders the SUSPENSION pendente lite of accused James Ang Dit Ang Jr. as member of the House of Representatives, and from any other public position he may now or hereafter hold for a period of 90 days from receipt of this Resolution,” the court said.
Ang is facing two counts of violation of Section 3(h) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The court said preventive suspension is mandatory under Section 13 of the law once the legal requirements are met.
Ang had argued that suspension was unwarranted because he had already divested his shares and interests in Allencon, the construction firm linked to the charges. He also maintained that his continued legislative functions would not allow him to influence the company or interfere with the cases.
The court, however, said Ang’s motion to quash the charges had already been denied and that he pleaded not guilty on September 1.
“In fine, the requisites for suspension under Sec. 13 of Republic Act No. 3019 have been met,” the Sandiganbayan said.
The Ombudsman earlier accused Ang of retaining an interest in a construction firm that secured ₱214 million in Department of Public Works and Highways contracts while he was serving in Congress.
