BALER, Aurora – Vice Gov. Gerardo Noveras yesterday dismissed as sheer political harassment the criminal charges filed against him and two other government officials before the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the apprehension of a truckload of illegally-cut lumber here in 2007.

“Of course, it’s politically motivated. You can see the timing of the complaint,” he said.

Noveras, Vice Mayor Narciso Amansec and Demie Agbayani, an employee of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources were sued by Dipaculao Mayor Reynante Tolentino for violation of Republic Act 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code, RA 6713 or the Code of Ethical Conduct for Public Officials and Employees and for culpable violation of the Constitution, and Agbayani for violation of RA 3019, also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Tolentino is the brother of Board Member Danilo Tolentino, who is contesting the reelection bid of Noveras. Amansec is contesting the mayorship of Reynante.
Noveras said he has yet to receive a copy of the complaint.

The case stemmed from Noveras’ having appeared on Sept. 16, 2009 as counsel of Amansec before the Baler Regional Trial Court Branch 66 for his alleged involvement in the seizure of the undocumented lumber in Barangay Dinadiawan on Nov. 13, 2007.

Noveras also presided over the administrative case for grave misconduct filed on Aug. 25, 2008 before the Sangguniang Panlalawigan by the Sangguniang Bayan of this town against Amansec.

Noveras actively discussed the case and even persuaded the other members to defer the administrative case against Amansec on the basis of a pending criminal case against the vice mayor which the SP granted.

Amansec was charged with violating his mandate to uphold public interest in accordance with his oath of office and the mandate of his position over his private interest and gain.

Agbayani was charged with allegedly trying to bribe Tolentino into not including his name in the list of those involved in the seizure of the lumber haul.             Mamer Bañez