Manila, Aug. 18 -- The Sandiganbayan fourth division has acquitted former officials of the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) of alleged irregularities in the procurement of mahogany saplings and garden tools for tree plantings in 2009.

In a 131-page decision made public Monday, the anti-graft court acquitted former PRA deputy general manager Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Lingat(ret.) and 12 others, citing "failure of the prosecution to prove their guilt beyond reasonable doubt."

The court said there was "no proof that the acts of the accused caused undue injury to any party, including the government, or have given any private party unwarranted benefits, advantage or preference."

Others acquitted were Evelyn Tansiongco, Teresita Aganan, Virgi...