CHAVIT SINGSON, 13 OTHERS FACE PLUNDER CHARGES OVER PROPERTY PURCHASE

Former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson and 13 others are facing plunder complaints for allegedly approving the overpriced purchase of a property in Narvacan town in 2019. The complaint, filed by The Warriors Ti Narvacan, Inc., alleges the property was bought for nearly P150 million despite a zonal valuation of about P50 million, violating the Anti-Plunder Act. Singson denies wrongdoing, calling the charges a political smear, and claims the property was actually worth P800 million at the time. He added that he personally incurred a loss of around P680 million by selling the property to the local government at a lower price. The case also involves current and former local officials and a representative from the property seller.