NBI files graft raps vs. CHR chief, 3 others

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has filed graft and gross misconduct charges against Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc and three other officials over alleged travel expense claims for a training program already funded by a foreign donor.

Also charged before the Office of the Ombudsman were CHR General Administration Office Director IV Onesimo Cuyco, Accounting Division chief Maria Teresa Dolor and Russel Mani, whose designation was not immediately clear.

The respondents were accused of violating Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, in connection with the processing and approval of the travel claims. The complaint seeks a preliminary investigation into the allegations.

The case stemmed from Palpal-latoc’s attendance at the 54th International Institute of Human Rights Summer School in 2025. According to the NBI, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom had already covered the expenses for airfare, accommodation, meals, and subsistence during the month-long program.

Despite the donor’s funding, Palpal-latoc allegedly claimed daily subsistence and representation allowances for the trip. The NBI said this ran counter to Executive Order No. 77, which restricts representation expenses for government officials attending training or traveling on donor-funded trips.

Investigators also found that the disbursement voucher did not disclose the foreign donor and was supported by a program agenda for a different event.

The NBI alleged that Mani certified the voucher’s supporting documents as complete, Dolor certified the availability of funds, and Cuyco approved the voucher for payment.

In response, CHR spokesperson and Commissioner Beda Epres said the commission was aware of information circulating online about the allegations and recognized the seriousness of concerns involving public funds and government accountability.

Epres said the CHR had not received a formal complaint at the time of her statement but emphasized the importance of establishing the facts through proper procedures and in accordance with government accounting and auditing rules and due process.

“The CHR remains committed to ensuring that the concerns raised are addressed through the proper channels and will provide further information as appropriate,” she said.

The charges remain allegations and will be subject to the appropriate proceedings before the Ombudsman. TRACY CABRERA