Business · Philippines Bureau
Former BFP Chief Denies Indirect Bribery Charges in Sandiganbayan Hearing
Jesus Fernandez, the former chief of the Bureau of Fire Protection, pleaded not guilty Tuesday to indirect bribery allegations before the anti-graft court. The ex-official faces charges related to receiving approximately P10.7 million.
LSN Philippines ·
Former Bureau of Fire Protection chief Jesus Fernandez entered a not guilty plea during his arraignment Tuesday on indirect bribery charges before the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division, according to his legal counsel.
Fernandez is accused of receiving P10.7 million in connection with the case, which represents one of two indirect bribery charges filed against the retired fire protection official. The arraignment marks the next step in the judicial proceedings against him.
His defense team, led by attorney Jhufel Brañanola, confirmed the plea during the court hearing. The Sandiganbayan, a specialized court handling graft and corruption cases involving public officials, will proceed with the case based on Fernandez's not guilty plea.
The charges stem from allegations that Fernandez received improper payments while serving as head of the fire service agency. Further court proceedings are expected as the case moves forward in the anti-graft court system.