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The Regional Trial Court Branch 24, Manila has convicted Janet Lim Napoles of money laundering in connection with the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam, in a decision dated 12 July 2024.
The case, initiated by a complaint filed by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) with the Department of Justice, resulted in a sentence of seven to 14 years of imprisonment for Napoles. She was also ordered to pay a fine of PHP16 million.
Despite the pending resolution of her plunder case, the court found Napoles guilty of money laundering. The court clarified that a final conviction for a predicate crime is not necessary to secure a conviction for money laundering. What is essential is to prove that the money or property came from an unlawful activity. In this case, the court determined that there was proof beyond reasonable doubt that millions of pesos of ill-gotten wealth coming from public funds were amassed through the PDAF scam.
The conviction underscored the government’s commitment to pursue justice in cases of large-scale corruption.
“This case sends a clear and strong message that those who engage in corrupt activities and attempt to launder their illicit gains will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” said AMLC Executive Director, Atty. Matthew M. David.
“Napoles’ conviction is a significant victory in the government’s fight against corruption. It serves as a powerful reminder that the AMLC, in collaboration with other government agencies, is committed to prosecuting individuals involved in the plunder of public funds,” he added.
The AMLC continues to strengthen its efforts in combating money laundering, ensuring that justice is served and public trust in the integrity of our financial system is upheld.
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For further information, contact:
Tel. No. 53062833
Posted: 22 August 2024