A scheme to inflate reimbursement claims has resulted in a lengthy prison sentence for former Bacolod City Mayor Luzviminda Valdez.
The Sandiganbayan 6th Division in its April 29, 2025 decision convicted Valdez and her aide, Brendo Eligio, on seven counts of falsification, each carrying a sentence of two to six years, totaling a potential 42-year imprisonment.
The anti-graft court’s investigation in its 114 pages decision revealed that both altered at least seven cash slips, fraudulently increasing small expenses to substantial amounts. In one instance highlighted by prosecutors, Valdez sought reimbursement for P364,778 when the actual expenses were only slightly over P2,000.
Although acquitted of malversation, the conviction for falsification underscores a clear intent to defraud. Three other individuals who served under Valdez were cleared of all charges, the decision said.
