The Office of the Ombudsman has dismissed graft, plunder, and technical malversation charges against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and former Philippine Health Insurance Corporation president Emmanuel Ledesma over the controversial transfer of P60 billion in reserve funds to the National Treasury in 2024.
In a 40-page ruling, the Ombudsman found no sufficient evidence of wrongdoing, saying the fund transfer was done in line with budget provisions and official duties at the time.
It also ruled that the accused acted within legal authority before later Supreme Court pronouncements voided related provisions and circulars.
The decision noted that the absence of intent for personal gain and the eventual return of funds weakened allegations of plunder.
The complaints were dismissed for lack of prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction.
Source: PhilNews24 | June 10, 2026
