The Office of the Ombudsman Visayas has dismissed the administrative and criminal complaints filed against House Deputy Speaker and Bacolod City Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, along with other city officials, due to lack of sufficient evidence. The case stemmed from the government’s acquisition of land in Hacienda Conchita, Barangay Granada, Bacolod City.
Background of the Case
The complaints were initiated by Roger Ledesma against Benitez, several city councilors, former councilors, and private individuals. The allegations included violation of Section 3(g) of Republic Act 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act), grave misconduct, and violation of RA 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees). The complainant alleged that the respondents engaged in selling and buying agricultural lots covered by the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL) at prices exceeding market value, had conflicts of interest due to overlapping committee memberships, and facilitated a hasty transfer of title without clearance from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
Ombudsman's Findings
In a joint resolution dated April 14, 2026, the Ombudsman dismissed the criminal complaint for violation of Section 3(g) of RA 3019 and RA 6713 due to insufficient evidence. The administrative charges for grave misconduct and violation of RA 6713 were also dismissed for lack of substantial evidence. The Ombudsman noted that there was no definite proof of overpricing, nor that the lots were subject to CARL. Additionally, no conflict of interest under RA 6713 was established.
With the resolution of the administrative case, the complainant’s request for preventive suspension of the public respondents was denied. The criminal complaint against Antonio Ma. Ledesma was dismissed due to his death.
Bacolod City's Land Banking Initiative
Bacolod City had previously acquired 74 hectares in Barangay Granada as part of its land banking program, funded by a P4.4 billion loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines.
Reaction of Representative Benitez
Benitez welcomed the Ombudsman's resolution, stating that all actions taken were in accordance with the law and due process. He emphasized that the findings affirmed no basis for administrative or criminal liability, and that there was no clear showing of overpricing, conflict of interest, or bad faith. He acknowledged that scrutiny is part of public office and respected the process.
Benitez reiterated his commitment to strengthening the local economy, improving basic services, and ensuring that decisions deliver real value to the people of Bacolod. He vowed to continue serving with integrity, discipline, and purpose.
