The Supreme Court has acquitted former Cagayan de Oro City Councilor President Elipe and his sister Pristine Quizon of graft and falsification charges. The case involved Quizon’s 2014 daily time records, which showed her at work even while she was abroad. Although earlier convicted by the Sandiganbayan, the SC ruled there was no proof of bad faith or intent to defraud since Quizon’s flexi-time was approved and she rendered extra hours to cover her absences. With no loss to the government, both were acquitted.
The Sandiganbayan had earlier convicted them, imposing a 6–10 year prison term and perpetual disqualification from public office. They elevated the case to the Supreme Court, which ruled that both offenses require proof of malice or wrongful intent—elements the prosecution failed to establish. The SC further emphasized that legal procedures should serve, not hinder, the pursuit of true justice.
Read some portions of the decision below.
Here’s the Concurring Opinion of Justice Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa.
Download full text of decision HERE.
