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DMW FILES GRAFT, PLUNDER RAPS VS EX-OWWA CHIEF ARNELL IGNACIO, 8 OTHERS OVER P1.4B LAND DEAL

admin July 30, 2025

THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) filed anti-graft and corrupt charges before the Office of the Ombudsman against three former officials of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and six others, for the alleged anomalous acquisition of a parcel of land worth P1.4 billion.

“This matter is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for accountability in public service, so clearly echoed in his SONA. And, of course to make sure that we enforce, we carry out, we implement the necessary laws governing accountability of public officials, as what has transpired in this case,” said Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac.

Charged with violations of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, RA 7080 (Anti-Plunder Act), and Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code (Malversation of Public Funds) were former OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio, his two former Deputy Administrators, and six individuals who are part of the seller group.

The charges were on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, two months after Ignacio was sacked from his post.

The case stemmed from the acquisition of a 1.5-hectare property near Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 in September 2024, in which a halfway-house for returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) would be constructed.

However, the property was deemed unsuitable for development due its proximity to the airport runway.

It was also discovered that OWWA’s board of directors was not consulted and did not authorize the contract to sell, the deed of sale, and the supplemental agreement in connection with the purchase of the property.

Cacdac also said that during their investigation, they also discovered other information, particularly vouchers and checks that were signed prior to the deed of sale. The Secretary said that these information will bolster the case they filed.

While the current focus is on the criminal charges, the DMW indicated that they will provide updates on any future developments, including the possibility of filing civil charges to recover damages.

The DMW Secretary said that they are now in close coordination with OWWA’s current Administrator, attorney Patricia Yvonne Caunan, in enhancing coordination and establishing reforms and safety nets to prevent similar incidents in the future.