By: Luisa Cabato
MANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan acquitted former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Jesus Versoza of graft charges related to the 2009 helicopter scam on Friday. However, five other individuals were found guilty of graft beyond a reasonable doubt: Police Directors Luizo Ticman, Ronald Roderos, Romeo Hilomen, Leocadio Santiago Jr., and Hilaro de Vera.
The case arose from allegations that two Robinson R44 Raven 1 helicopters purchased by the PNP in 2009 were actually owned by former First Gentleman Jose Miguel “Mike” Arroyo and were misrepresented as brand new.
While the purchase order for the helicopters was approved and signed by Versoza, Arroyo himself faced graft charges concerning the helicopter deal, which were ultimately dismissed by the Sandiganbayan.