Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 7) — Retired Philippine National Police (PNP) comptroller Eliseo dela Paz has been convicted in a criminal case for traveling with undeclared cash in excess of the allowable limit.
The Sandiganbayan Fourth division handed down its decision on Friday, finding him guilty of violating a provision of Republic Act 7653 or the New Central Bank Act.
“The court hereby imposes the penalty or fine in the amount of ₱200,000,” the court said in its decision read in open court.
His cash bond will be retained by the court until he settles the fine.
Meanwhile, Dela Paz’ wife, Maria Fe, who was also charged as his co-accused, was acquitted.
“For failure of the prosecution to prove her guilt beyond reasonable doubt on the crime charged. The cash bonds posted by her for her provisional liberty are ordered returned to her subject to the usual accounting procedures,” the court said.
The Hold Departure Order issued against her was also lifted.
Dela Paz and eight other high ranking police officials were implicated in the ‘Euro Generals’ controversy following their attendance at an International Police (Interpol) seminar in 2008.
The scandal first erupted when the Dela Paz couple was apprehended by customs at the Moscow International Airport for carrying 105,000 euros, which exceeded the limit.
The Ombudsman also charged Dela Paz for authorizing the illegal release of ₱10 million in PNP intelligence funds which were diverted to the police delegates’ travel expenses.
He also faced other charges over the same offense, including graft and malversation. Due to lack of evidence, however, he was cleared in all the cases except for the undeclared cash charge.
