World · Philippines Bureau
Witness: P75-M donation to Marcoleta tied to campaign finances
A witness testifying in the plunder case against Senator Rodante Marcoleta told the Sandiganbayan that three co-accused indicated to investigators the P75 million donation was campaign-related rather than purely charitable.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — A witness in the plunder prosecution of Senator Rodante Marcoleta informed the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Thursday that three of the senator's co-accused had disclosed to investigators that a P75 million donation was connected to election activities.
Maria Melinda Mananghaya-Henson of the Office of the Ombudsman presented testimony suggesting the co-accused individuals had characterized the transaction as campaign-related during their statements to prosecutors.
The revelation adds a new dimension to the ongoing case against Marcoleta, who faces plunder charges. Prosecutors have previously alleged that substantial funds were diverted through questionable financial arrangements.
The case remains under trial at the anti-graft court, with additional witness testimony expected as prosecutors build their case against the senator and his co-accused. The characterization of the P75 million transfer as campaign-linked could have significant implications for the legal arguments presented by both the prosecution and defense teams.