Sandiganbayan suspends Tarlac congressman for 90 days in graft case

The Sandiganbayan Sixth Division issued a suspension order against Tarlac Representative Noel Rivera on September 29, barring him from holding public office for 90 days. The temporary removal comes as Rivera faces graft allegations involving his purported connections to a construction company that obtained multiple contracts from the Department of Public Works and Highways.

The anti-graft court determined that sufficient grounds existed to warrant the suspension pending the resolution of the criminal case against the congressman. The charges stem from accusations that Rivera failed to disclose his relationship with the construction firm while the company was negotiating and securing DPWH contracts, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.

Rivera's suspension marks another development in an ongoing investigation into potential corruption within government procurement processes. The case underscores renewed efforts by the judiciary to enforce accountability measures against public officials accused of compromising their duties through undisclosed financial interests.

The 90-day suspension period allows the court to proceed with hearings on the graft charges without interference from Rivera's legislative duties. The congressman's office has not yet issued a public statement regarding the suspension order.