ANGELES CITY, Philippines – The Commission on Audit (COA) has found no disallowances, suspensions, or charges against Angeles City Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting and 12 city councilors in connection with allegations of hiring ghost employees, as of March 31, 2025.
The COA certification directly contradicts a complaint filed by Pyra Lucas, who claimed that the absence of 171 Job Order (JO) workers constituted misconduct. Lucas, a self-proclaimed anti-corruption crusader, filed the case before the Office of the Ombudsman under the United Pilipino Against Crime and Corruption (UPACC), but has since been expelled from the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC), a group led by Boy Arsenio.
City officials and allies denounced the complaint as politically motivated. “This is clearly a desperate attempt to tarnish the integrity of public servants who have been faithfully carrying out their duties,” said Vega-Cabigting, adding that the JO workers were engaged in community-based fieldwork.
The councilors named in the complaint include Crystal Dj Aguas, Crisanto Cortez, Joseph Alfie Bonifacio, Marino Banola, Danilo Lacson, Jesus Sangil, Edgardo Pamintuan Jr., Raco Paolo Del Rosario, Arvin Suller, Alexander Indiongco, Jeremias Alejandrino, and Arnoah Prince Mandani.
Local civic leader Russelle Ponce also came to their defense, calling the allegations “pure fabrication” by political detractors.
The respondents have asked for the complaint’s dismissal, citing lack of merit, evidence, and legal basis. They have also challenged a motion for preventive suspension, labeling it baseless and unjust.
“This is political noise — nothing more, nothing less,” Vega-Cabigting said.