The Office of the Ombudsman has initiated legal action against Tarlac Congressman Noel Rivera, filing nine counts of graft related to flood control projects. The charges were announced by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla during a press conference.
Details of the Charges
Yes, we filed. Conflict of interest and flood control.
Jesus Crispin Remulla, Ombudsman
- One count each assigned to the First, Second, and Fourth divisions of the Sandiganbayan.
- Two counts each assigned to the Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh divisions.
The graft counts stem from accusations that Rivera maintained financial interests in a construction firm while serving as a public official, a direct violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. This law prohibits officials from having any financial stakes in businesses involved in government contracts.
As the seventh batch of flood control-related cases filed since Remulla took office in October 2025, these charges highlight ongoing concerns about corruption in local governance.
Efforts to obtain a statement from Congressman Rivera regarding the allegations are ongoing.