World · Philippines Bureau
Ombudsman seeks justice's recusal in Revilla bail decision case
Prosecutors have asked the Sandiganbayan Third Division to remove an associate justice from the malversation case against former Senator Ramon Revilla Jr., citing his vote to grant bail. The motion filed Monday targets Justice Ronald Moreno.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman has petitioned the Sandiganbayan Third Division to inhibit Associate Justice Ronald Moreno from the malversation case involving former Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr., citing his decision to vote in favor of granting bail to the accused.
Prosecutors submitted the motion to inhibit on Monday, arguing that Moreno's previous ruling on the bail matter raises concerns about his impartiality in ongoing proceedings. The motion reflects the prosecution's position that the justice should step aside from further participation in the case.
The Sandiganbayan, the country's special court handling cases involving public officials, has yet to rule on the prosecution's request. The case against Revilla centers on allegations of malversation of public funds related to his handling of pork barrel funds during his tenure in the Senate.
Revilla has maintained his innocence in the matter. The former legislator's legal team has consistently challenged the charges brought against him, with bail being a contested issue throughout the proceedings.