The Sandiganbayan has convicted Janet Lim Napoles, known as the "pork barrel scam queen," and former Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) undersecretary Jerry Pacturan on multiple counts of malversation. This decision, issued on July 24, 2026, involves the misappropriation of P50 million intended for agricultural assistance projects in Luzon.
Details of the Conviction
The anti-graft court found both individuals liable for diverting government funds meant for farmers, as the projects were never implemented. Napoles participated via videoconferencing, while Pacturan was present at the court.
The funds were funneled to non-government organizations linked to Napoles despite the absence of legitimate project implementation and qualified beneficiaries.
Prosecutors
- Napoles faces up to 20 years in prison for each of the 10 counts of malversation.
- Pacturan received a sentence of 19 years, one month, and 11 days for each count.
In addition to malversation, Napoles was convicted of 10 counts of violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, receiving additional prison time of up to 15 years per count. Pacturan, however, was acquitted of graft charges as the evidence did not meet the burden of proof.
This case is part of a larger pattern of legal battles for Napoles, who has faced numerous convictions related to the pork barrel scam. Her ongoing legal challenges highlight the persistent issues of corruption within the Philippine government.