Another graft case filed against Padaca

By Raymund Catindig

ILAGAN, Isabela -- Former Commission on Elections commissioner Maria Gracia Padaca faces another graft case for allegedly failing to file her statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) when she was governor of Isabela.

Former Naguilian mayor Francisco Ignacio Ramirez filed the case with the Office of the Ombudsman on Aug. 27.

Ramirez, who was also provincial attorney during the incumbency of Padaca’s predecessor, Faustino Dy Jr., presented copies of her SALN from 2007 to 2010 that she submitted to the Commission on Appointments following her nomination as Comelec commissioner.

He noted that all the SALNs were signed on June 28, 2013, in violation of Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, which states that the SALN  should be filed by April 30 every year.

First District Rep. Rodolfo Albano III said Padaca’s non-compliance with the law on SALN was irreversible, prompting President Aquino to decide not to renew her appointment to the Comelec.

Padaca could not be reached for comment.