Politics · Philippines Bureau
Senator Marcoleta sought campaign funds from coaccused businessman, witness tells court
A government investigator testified before the Sandiganbayan that Sen. Rodante Marcoleta solicited campaign contributions from businessman Aristotle Viray, who faces plunder charges alongside the senator. The testimony emerged during bail proceedings in the high-profile case.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — An official from the Office of the Ombudsman's Field Investigation Bureau told the Sandiganbayan on Thursday that Sen. Rodante Marcoleta sought campaign funds from Aristotle Viray, a businessman and coaccused in a plunder case involving the senator.
Maria Melinda Mananghaya-Henson provided the testimony during bail hearings for the case, which centers on allegations stemming from Marcoleta's financial dealings. The witness account adds another dimension to the ongoing investigation into the senator's conduct.
The Sandiganbayan is hearing arguments from both prosecution and defense teams as it considers bail eligibility for those charged in the case. Prosecutors have alleged financial improprieties, while the defense has contested the charges.
Marcoleta has consistently denied wrongdoing in the matter. The case continues to draw scrutiny as it involves a sitting member of Congress and underscores ongoing concerns about campaign finance transparency in Philippine politics.
The bail hearings are expected to continue as the court deliberates on conditions for the accused's temporary release pending trial.