The Office of the Ombudsman has indicted former Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Arnell Ignacio for Usurpation of Official Functions over the agency’s ₱1.4-billion property acquisition, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac said the Ombudsman found that Ignacio signed the contract to sell, deed of absolute sale, its addendum, and approved the release of public funds without authorization from the OWWA Board of Trustees.

The Ombudsman ordered the filing of a criminal information against Ignacio, ruling that his actions went beyond administrative violations and constituted usurpation of official functions under Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code.

Meanwhile, the Ombudsman dismissed separate complaints for alleged graft, malversation, and plunder involving the transaction. However, Cacdac said the DMW will file a motion for reconsideration, arguing that key evidence was not fully addressed.

The department seeks a review of the alleged undue advantage given to the property seller, including the reported release of nearly ₱1.4 billion before the deed of sale was executed, and the alleged government loss involving 51 condominium units worth about ₱97 million that were included in the purchase but were no longer existing when inspected.

Cacdac said the DMW is pursuing all available legal remedies to protect public funds and ensure accountability in the use of welfare funds for overseas Filipino workers.