Ex-CIDG chief gets 3 months in jail for non-disclosure of assets

MANILA, Philippines – After he pleaded guilty to non-disclosure of assets in his Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan convicted on 3 counts of perjury and 3 counts of violation of the ethical code retired chief superintendent Eduardo Matillano.

Matillano is the former director of the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), who was accused of non-disclosure of assets from 2001-2003 and non-submission of SALNs from 1994-2000 and in 2004.

The Sandiganbayan 2nd Division sentenced Matillano to 3 months and 3 days in jail or one month and one day for each count of perjury. Matillano was fined P8,000 or P1,000 for each count of violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Matillano submitted a manifestation to the court to withdraw his not guilty plea. Sandiganbayan ruled on September 5 to re-arraign and then convict him.

“Matillano confirmed the manifestation of his counsel. He informed the Court that he fully understands the nature and cause of the accusations against him, the same having been explained to him by his counsel, and that he is entering a plea of guilty to all the charges,” the court said.

Ombudsman prosecutors said Matillano did not declare 5 real estate properties in Antipolo City and Palawan, 9 motor vehicles, and investments in 5 companies. 

Matillano’s undeclared properties include two lots in Antipolo City, Rizal, two buildings and a 1.69-hectare land in Roxas, Palawan. He was also found to have a 2001 Toyota Hi-Ace, 1998 Nissan Patrol, 1996 Kia Ceres, 1998 Honda motorcycle, Mitsubishi Fuso, Isuzu dumptruck, Misubishi Fuso tractor, Isuzu vehicle, and Suzuki Esteem.

His investments were traced to Palawan Agromate Products Inc, First Food Caterers and Managers Corporation, Warbird Security and Investigation Agency Inc, Camttrade Industrial Supply Corporation and Mega Source Technological and Industrial Corporation. – Rappler.com