Hold-departure order issued vs Eric Yap, brotherMANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan has barred Benguet Rep. Eric Yap and his brother resigned ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Edvic Yap from leaving the country as they face investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman for malversation and graft over their alleged involvement in the flood control scandal. The anti-graft court’s Second Division issued a precautionary hold-departure order against the Yap brothers as requested by the ombudsman, which is currently conducting a preliminary investigation on complaints filed by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon. “A PHDO is requested during the Preliminary Investigation stage to ensure that the respondents, who are considered flight risks, do not leave the jurisdiction. Dizon said the Yap brothers may have violated the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019) and malversation of public funds with falsification of public documents. Citing the Anti-Money Laundering Council, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla also said Yap received large amounts of cash from contractors Pacifico and Cezarah Discaya.

Source: Philippine Star March 04, 2026 03:11 UTC