For failing to declare the name of his wife in his 2007 Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth, a former Department of Environment and Natural Resources official was indicted for perjury and violation of Section 8 of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
Former DENR director Jacob Meimban Jr. faces a jail term of one month to one year. He was also ordered to pay a fine of P5,000.
According to the Ombudsman, Meimban “willfully, unlawfully and feloniously” failed to declare the name of his estranged wife in his 2007 SALN by writing “N/A” on the space provided for it.
It said that Meimban was fully aware that his marriage with his wife has not yet been annulled at the time of the filing of his SALN.
Meimban, however, said that it was already a matter of public knowledge that his wife already reverted to using her maiden name, which would allow him to write [not applicable]” in his SALN.
But the Sandiganbayan did not give credit to Meimban’s defense, saying that the former DENR director should “be mindful of this matter, and to live up to the highest standard of service” as a public officer.
“A person aspiring to public office must observe honesty, candor and faithful compliance with the law. Nothing less is expected,” the Sandiganbayan said.
“This ideal standard ensures that only those of known probity, competence and integrity are called on the challenge of public service. Thus, Meimban Jr. is liable for the offenses with which he is charged,” it added.
Fourth Division chair Associate Justice Alex Quiroz penned the decision, which was concurred by Associate Justices Reynalldo Cruz and Bayani Jacinto.
The Sandiganbayan defines perjury as the “willful and corrupt assertion of a falsehood under oath or affirmation administered by authority of law.”
Section 8 of RA 6713 requires all government officials and employees to accomplish a sworn SALN disclosing all financial and business interests of their family, including unmarried children under the age of 18, as of December 31 of every year.
