Anti-graft court suspends Uswag Ilonggo lawmaker over contract allegations

MANILA — The anti-graft court has suspended Uswag Ilonggo party-list Representative Jojo Ang for 90 days pending trial on charges that he improperly benefited from his position as a lawmaker. A Sandiganbayan resolution issued September 21 and released Tuesday mandated the suspension, citing the seriousness of the graft allegations against him.

Ang faces charges related to his alleged connections with a company that obtained approximately P214 million in public works contracts during his tenure as a congressman. The suspension order is intended to prevent potential interference with the ongoing investigation and judicial proceedings while the case proceeds through the courts.

The preventive suspension is a standard procedural measure employed in high-profile graft cases to safeguard the integrity of investigations and ensure the impartiality of the proceedings. Ang's suspension removes him from his legislative duties during the 90-day period, though legal processes continue to determine culpability.

The case marks another instance of graft allegations against members of Congress, underscoring ongoing concerns about potential conflicts of interest and improper use of public office for personal gain. The Sandiganbayan, the country's special anti-graft court, maintains jurisdiction over cases involving public officials accused of corruption and related offenses.