Allegations Surface: Wealth Accusations Against Lambino
Raul Lambino, the figurehead of the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), has recently found himself embroiled in a whirlwind of controversy. Allegations of corruption have surfaced claiming that he possesses unexplained wealth amounting to tens of millions of dollars. A report from The Manila Times, citing leaked documents from the Philippine National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), has set the stage for questioning Lambino’s financial transactions.
Questionable Fees and Possible Embezzlement
According to the NICA report, Lambino has gained a reputation for charging cryptocurrency companies a staggering $200,000—$100,000 for a licensing fee and another $100,000 as an application fee. However, it appears Lambino may have a magic trick up his sleeve, as only $3,000 in receipts have been recorded. This discrepancy raises eyebrows and suggests that he may be pocketing the rest—a whopping $97,000 per company.
- With 25 companies registered under CEZA, this could amount to a grand total of $4.8 million.
- Furthermore, rumors circulate about companies gifting 10% of their capital stock to CEZA officials—a seemingly generous yet suspicious token of appreciation.
Family Politics and Funding: A Regular Affair
The plot thickens as the NICA report details how Lambino allegedly funds the political aspirations of his family members. Cryptocurrency and gaming companies are said to contribute to his weekly stipend, which reportedly sits around $98,000. With such funding, it becomes clear why Lambino has reportedly utilized CEZA’s resources and even contracted staff for his family’s election campaigns.
- In the 2019 midterm elections, his son Mark clinched the vice-governorship.
- His wife, Marilyn, snatched the mayoral position in Mangaldan.
Interestingly, many of these funds are allegedly traced back to Chinese investors with vested interests in gaming and cryptocurrency.
Spending Spree and Treasury Drain
As if allegations of political funding weren’t enough, Lambino faces accusations of irresponsible financial management. The report claims that he disbursed an astonishing $36.4 million from unused funds within just a year of taking office! Fast forward to July 2018, and CEZA’s treasury was left with a mere $2.7 million.
Jet Setter with a Hidden Agenda?
Lambino’s alleged love for travel might rival that of elite vacationers, as reports indicate he’s taken 22 trips abroad in just one year, seemingly disregarding the ban on foreign travel for government officials. It seems his luxurious lifestyle extends far beyond the borders of the Philippines, with frequent travels accompanied by a security entourage.
Could this jet-setting behavior hint at ulterior motives? NICA suggests that he may be preparing to launch a congressional bid, perhaps feeling that his CEZA days are numbered. “His fundraising tactics have become increasingly bold,” notes the report, “even with President Duterte’s admonitions against corruption ringing in his ears.”
Political Handouts: Cashback for Votes?
In a bid to curry favor with the voters, Lambino allegedly has distributed television sets and groceries to the citizens of Pangasinan. A classic move for any political candidate seeking to lock in votes—because who doesn’t love free stuff?
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