The Department of Justice has found probable cause on the complaint filed by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) against former employees involved in a payroll padding scheme.
In a 23-page resolution signed by Assistant State Prosecutor Moises Acayan, Sr. Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Fadullon and Prosecutor General Benedicto Malcontento, the filing of several counts of qualified theft, attempted qualified theft, cyber-related forgery and computer-related fraud have been recommended against Paul Ignacio, Michaelle Jones Velarde and Lymuel Seguilla.
PSC Chairman Butch Ramirez has been following the case since the fraud was reported.
“It is a regrettable incident but it compelled us to fast-track upgrades and consider a second-look at existing processes,” said Ramirez.
In July last year, Ignacio was discovered redirecting funds to his own bank account. He used to handle payroll preparation for the agency.
During the investigation, two more employees were discovered working in connivance with Ignacio.
As recommended in the DOJ resolution, cases will be filed in the Regional Trial Court of Imus, Cavite.
