Business · Philippines Bureau
Ex-BFP Chief Fernandez Denies Indirect Bribery Allegations
Former Bureau of Fire Protection chief Jesus Fernandez has pleaded not guilty to indirect bribery charges involving a ₱10.7 million transaction. The Sandiganbayan's Fifth Division is presiding over the case.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Jesus Fernandez, the former chief of the Bureau of Fire Protection, entered a not guilty plea Tuesday to one of two indirect bribery cases filed against him before the Sandiganbayan, the country's anti-graft court.
The single count of indirect bribery charge centers on a ₱10.7 million transaction. During his arraignment, the Fifth Division of the Sandiganbayan formally read the information—the official charge document—to Fernandez, marking the start of proceedings in this particular case.
The former BFP official faces a total of two indirect bribery cases. Details regarding the second case and its status were not immediately specified. Indirect bribery charges typically involve government officials receiving gifts or benefits in connection with their official duties.
The Sandiganbayan, established to handle cases involving public officials accused of graft and corruption, will continue overseeing the case proceedings. The Fifth Division's handling of the matter suggests the court has assigned specialized justices to review the evidence and allegations presented by prosecutors.