THE Office of the Ombudsman has filed a graft charge against former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi before the Sandiganbayan in connection with businessman Dennis Uy’s acquisition of Chevron’s 45 percent stake in the Malampaya gas project.
Cusi, along with former Department of Energy (DOE) officials, were charged with one count of violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. Also charged were former DOE Undersecretaries Donato Marcos and Robert Uy, Assistant Secretary Leonido Pulido III, and Director Cesar dela Fuente III.
The charges stem from the Ombudsman’s finding of probable cause in November 2024, following a preliminary investigation. The DOE officials are accused of approving the acquisition despite Dennis Uy’s UC Malampaya allegedly being financially unqualified and lacking the necessary technical expertise.
In 2022, the Senate recommended that charges be filed against DOE officials over the approval of the sale. Cusi has defended the deal, claiming that criticisms against it were politically motivated.
metrosundaily
