MANILA, Philippines — Former senator and Businessman Manuel “Manny” Villar Jr. on Friday called for due process after the Office of the Ombudsman filed criminal and administrative complaints against him, members of his family and PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp. officials over their joint venture agreements with local water districts.
“We respect the legal process and will respond to the complaints at the appropriate time and in the proper forum,” Villar said in a statement.
He said the family had learned of the complaints through media reports but had not yet received copies, adding that they could not meaningfully comment on the specific allegations without seeing the complaints and supporting evidence.
“We are confident that, once given the opportunity to examine the allegations and the evidence supporting them, we will be able to fully and properly defend our rights and address the matters raised against us,” Villar said.
He also urged that “conclusions not be drawn before the parties have been afforded the opportunity to be heard.”
