Batangas exec faces corruption raps

Vice Mayor Angelina “Lynn” Castillo of San Pascual, Batangas is now in hot water after the Bantay San Pascual (BSP), a civic watchdog dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability in governance, has filed a detailed corruption complaint against her before the Office of the Ombudsman. 

The complaint, filed 6 December, but was released to the media Monday, accused Castillo of violating multiple laws, including RA 6713 (Code of Conduct for Public Officials and Employees), RA 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) and the Omnibus Election Code. 

The group alleges that Castillo abused government resources and social welfare programs to advance her 2025 mayoral candidacy.

According to BSP, Castillo, a mayoralty candidate, selectively distributed aid from government programs such as the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD). 

BSP claimed that financial aid under AICS was given only to individuals perceived to support Castillo’s candidacy, while beneficiaries of TUPAD were allegedly required to express their support for her mayoralty campaign to qualify for assistance. 

Non-supporters were reportedly excluded from these programs, raising concerns about misuse of public funds and resources for political gain.

The complaint further details the alleged use of government vehicles, facilities, and funds for activities linked to Castillo’s mayoralty campaign. 

BSP asserts that these actions constitute vote buying, premature campaigning, and abuse of public office, undermining ethical standards and the fairness of the electoral process.

BSP emphasizes that these violations erode the integrity of local governance. Under RA 6713, Castillo is accused of prioritizing personal political interests over public service. Under RA 3019, she allegedly caused undue injury to non-supporters by excluding them from government aid programs. 

The group also points to the Omnibus Election Code, citing acts of vote-buying and premature campaigning.