Deputy House Speaker and Bacolod Rep. Alfredo Abelardo “Abee” Benitez said on Thursday, April 30, that he will not be pursuing counter-charges against the person who filed cases against him, which were recently dismissed by the Ombudsman.
The Office of the Ombudsman dismissed criminal and administrative complaints filed against Benitez and 18 other city officials and private individuals in connection with the city’s purchase of 74.7 hectares of land in Hacienda Conchita in Barangay Granada, Bacolod City.
The complaints for violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, filed by local radio blocktimer Roger Ledesma, were dismissed for lack of substantial evidence.
“I will no longer be pursuing any counter-charge against the complainant. The issues raised have already been thoroughly addressed, and the Ombudsman’s ruling has affirmed that there was no basis for the allegations,” Benitez said.
“For me, that is more than enough. The dismissal of all cases stands as our full vindication,” he added.
Engaging in further legal action at this point would serve no meaningful purpose; it would only consume time and resources better devoted to public service, Benitez said.
“We choose to move forward, guided by the truth that has now been clearly established, and to continue focusing on our work for the people,” he said.*
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