Ombudsman probes Cagayan solon Lara, family over alleged ₱10-B plunder

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman has launched a preliminary investigation into alleged plunder and graft involving Cagayan Third District Rep. Joseph L. Lara and members of his family over billions of pesos in infrastructure contracts awarded by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to construction firms linked to them.

In a press release dated October 17, the Ombudsman said the complaints involve alleged plunder under Republic Act No. 7080 and violation of Section 3(h) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, or RA 3019.

Also covered by the investigation are Lara’s wife, Zarah Rose; their children Joseph Joshua, Joseph Jeremy, Joseph Kyle and Joseph II; and daughter-in-law Jessa.

The Ombudsman said Lara allegedly maintained financial interests in JLL Pulsar Construction Corporation, JDL5 Construction Corporation and Pulsar Construction Corporation while serving in public office. The firms reportedly secured DPWH infrastructure contracts.

The agency cited Article VI, Section 14 of the 1987 Constitution, which prohibits members of Congress from having direct or indirect financial interests in government contracts during their term.

According to the Ombudsman, Lara and some family members allegedly concealed their beneficial ownership of the companies. The complaints claim that Lara, in conspiracy with family members, amassed approximately ₱10.02 billion while in public office.

The Ombudsman also cited an Anti-Money Laundering Council field intelligence report indicating that Lara received more than ₱1.9 billion from relatives, affiliated entities and DPWH offices from 2019 to 2025.

The agency further alleged that he received approximately ₱3.8 billion from the DPWH, affiliated construction firms and joint ventures linked to government infrastructure projects. It also cited alleged additional financial interests of approximately ₱6.1 billion linked to DPWH contracts involving Lara and his wife.

The Ombudsman, however, stressed that the allegations remain subject to preliminary investigation. Lara and the other respondents will have the opportunity to answer the complaints and present their defenses.

The investigation will determine whether the evidence is sufficient to warrant the filing of criminal charges before the appropriate court.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said his office would continue examining financial transactions and corporate arrangements that may have been used to conceal prohibited interests in government contracts.

As of the time of writing, Lara’s camp had yet to issue a statement on the allegations.