A senator highlighted Chief Justice Renato Corona's “untarnished” record of voting in favor of former president, now Pampanga representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in all the cases filed against her.
"The current score is 19-0. Chief Justice Renato Corona consistently voted in favor of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in all 19 cases brought before the Supreme Court," Senator Franklin Drilon said in a statement Monday.
"He never voted against her," he added.
Drilon has also reiterated his appeal for Corona to inhibit himself from deliberations on the cases involving Arroyo to dispel doubts on the Supreme Court's impartiality and objectivity.
"All his decisions are all for Gloria. His own record shows that he favors Arroyo. Even if Chief Justice Corona's votes in the 19 cases are based on merit, what is important here is how people perceive him," he said.
Among Drilon’s list of the 19 cases he released to media is the SC decision stopping the Aquino administration from revoking the appointment of Arroyo’s alleged midnight appointees, one of whom was Corona.
Another controversial case on the list is SC's ruling declaring President Benigno Aquino III's order creating the Truth Commission unconstitutional.
The senator said that Corona's voluntary inhibition would "go a long way in maintaining the credibility of the Supreme Court especially in cases involving Arroyo."
Corona once served as chief of staff and spokesman of Arroyo when she was vice president.
Drilon earlier claimed that Corona's history with Arroyo has created perceptions that the SC was biased in favor of the former president.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Arroyo's health improving, asks for house arrest
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who tried to leave the country on medical grounds while the government scrambled to file charges against her, is well enough to leave the hospital where she was arrested last week, she and her doctors agree.
Arroyo lawyer Jose Flaminiano told a court Friday he was withdrawing his motion for a hospital arrest in favor of house arrest. Earlier, he had resisted efforts to have doctors testify about Arroyo's condition.
Arroyo is "fit to be released as outpatient," her physician Dr. Mario Ver testified Friday.
Arroyo has had three surgeries on her cervical spine, and she argued before her arrest that she needed to travel abroad for an urgent bone treatment that she claimed was unavailable in the Philippines.
The government refused to let her go this month, even after the Supreme Court ruled in her favor. She wore a head and neck brace as she was turned away from the Manila airport.
Arroyo successor President Benigno Aquino III has said the government wouldn't object to house arrest and wants the former leader treated with respect.
Arroyo, who left office last year, is charged with ordering the rigging of 2007 congressional polls, which she denies. If convicted, she faces life imprisonment.
Aquino promised to uproot corruption in the Philippines and says he wants to start with Arroyo, accusing her of proliferating a culture of graft and eroding public trust in government.
In a police medical report leaked to Friday's Philippine Daily Inquirer, medical section head of the Philippine National Police National Capital Region Hermenegilda Salangad was quoted as saying that Arroyo's medical status "has significantly improved except for the complaints of pain in low back, left knee, weakness of both feet and weak neck."
Judge Jesus Mupas of the Pasay Regional Trial Court earlier ordered Arroyo's doctors at Manila's St. Luke's Medical Center to testify about her condition. Flaminiano objected, citing doctor-patient confidentiality and the fact she was no longer seeking a hospital stay, which the court had previously approved on humanitarian grounds and because of Arroyo's stature.
The Commission on Elections, an independent body that filed the charges against Arroyo, asked to be given three days before responding to Arroyo's motion for house arrest.
In the meantime, commission lawyer Juana Valesa wants Arroyo to be transferred to a government hospital. Flaminiano objected, saying she should stay in remain in the private hospital where she has been treated until the court decides whether to allow house arrest.
Arroyo lawyer Jose Flaminiano told a court Friday he was withdrawing his motion for a hospital arrest in favor of house arrest. Earlier, he had resisted efforts to have doctors testify about Arroyo's condition.
Arroyo is "fit to be released as outpatient," her physician Dr. Mario Ver testified Friday.
Arroyo has had three surgeries on her cervical spine, and she argued before her arrest that she needed to travel abroad for an urgent bone treatment that she claimed was unavailable in the Philippines.
The government refused to let her go this month, even after the Supreme Court ruled in her favor. She wore a head and neck brace as she was turned away from the Manila airport.
Arroyo successor President Benigno Aquino III has said the government wouldn't object to house arrest and wants the former leader treated with respect.
Arroyo, who left office last year, is charged with ordering the rigging of 2007 congressional polls, which she denies. If convicted, she faces life imprisonment.
Aquino promised to uproot corruption in the Philippines and says he wants to start with Arroyo, accusing her of proliferating a culture of graft and eroding public trust in government.
In a police medical report leaked to Friday's Philippine Daily Inquirer, medical section head of the Philippine National Police National Capital Region Hermenegilda Salangad was quoted as saying that Arroyo's medical status "has significantly improved except for the complaints of pain in low back, left knee, weakness of both feet and weak neck."
Judge Jesus Mupas of the Pasay Regional Trial Court earlier ordered Arroyo's doctors at Manila's St. Luke's Medical Center to testify about her condition. Flaminiano objected, citing doctor-patient confidentiality and the fact she was no longer seeking a hospital stay, which the court had previously approved on humanitarian grounds and because of Arroyo's stature.
The Commission on Elections, an independent body that filed the charges against Arroyo, asked to be given three days before responding to Arroyo's motion for house arrest.
In the meantime, commission lawyer Juana Valesa wants Arroyo to be transferred to a government hospital. Flaminiano objected, saying she should stay in remain in the private hospital where she has been treated until the court decides whether to allow house arrest.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Marcos hits Aquino's 'selective justice'
Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. criticized President Benigno Aquino III’s handling of the case of former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, calling it “a bit of a mess.”
“Hindi maayos ang pag-handle dito. Hindi yata nila napag-isipan at napagplanuhan ng maigi kung ano ang kanilang gagawin,” Marcos said in an interview Tuesday.
The senator stressed that the administration should have filed the electoral sabotage case against Arroyo earlier given the existence of sufficient evidence to support charges.
Marcos, who has been consistently critical of Aquino, accused the president of getting “very personal” with the case.
‘Selective application’ of justice
“They want to prosecute Arroyo and they are doing everything,” he said. “They are very selective in their application of justice. They are very selective in their application of the use of the power of the executive and that selection is according to the political and partisan lines.”
The senator also hit the administration for not complying with the Supreme Court’s decisions.
“It is a dismay to see that orders of the Supreme Court are no longer respected or followed. This strikes at the very heart of our legal system and if the president and his alter ego, which is the secretaries of the different departments, choose not to follow the SC then that is a very serious blow to the separation and equality of the different departments of government,” Marcos said.
Extradition an option
The senator added that he does not support the administration’s decision to stop Arroyo from traveling abroad to seek medical treatment.
There are legal remedies to extradite Arroyo back to the country to face her cases in case she plans to escape, Marcos said.
“It seems to reflect the general difficulties that this administration has been facing. I know for sure that it could have been done in a much better way,” he said.
“Hindi maayos ang pag-handle dito. Hindi yata nila napag-isipan at napagplanuhan ng maigi kung ano ang kanilang gagawin,” Marcos said in an interview Tuesday.
The senator stressed that the administration should have filed the electoral sabotage case against Arroyo earlier given the existence of sufficient evidence to support charges.
Marcos, who has been consistently critical of Aquino, accused the president of getting “very personal” with the case.
‘Selective application’ of justice
“They want to prosecute Arroyo and they are doing everything,” he said. “They are very selective in their application of justice. They are very selective in their application of the use of the power of the executive and that selection is according to the political and partisan lines.”
The senator also hit the administration for not complying with the Supreme Court’s decisions.
“It is a dismay to see that orders of the Supreme Court are no longer respected or followed. This strikes at the very heart of our legal system and if the president and his alter ego, which is the secretaries of the different departments, choose not to follow the SC then that is a very serious blow to the separation and equality of the different departments of government,” Marcos said.
Extradition an option
The senator added that he does not support the administration’s decision to stop Arroyo from traveling abroad to seek medical treatment.
There are legal remedies to extradite Arroyo back to the country to face her cases in case she plans to escape, Marcos said.
“It seems to reflect the general difficulties that this administration has been facing. I know for sure that it could have been done in a much better way,” he said.
Justice pleas two years after Philippine massacre
Relatives of 57 people killed in the Philippines' worst political massacre were set to mark two years since the killings Wednesday with pleas for authorities to speed up the justice process.
While key leaders of the Ampatuan clan who are accused of orchestrating the killings have been charged, their trial is still in its early stages and prosecutors fear it could take years before anyone is punished for the crime.
Meanwhile, 100 suspects -- including members of the Ampatuan family, policemen and soldiers -- have yet to be caught, and relatives of the victims have complained that witnesses are being killed, intimidated or bribed.
"It has been two years and there is still no justice. Some (suspects) have been arraigned but others are still out there," said Reginald Dalmacio, 28, whose sister Leah, a newspaper journalist, was one of the 57 killed.
Philippine politics is well known for its violence, but the events of November 23, 2009, in a remote farming area of the southern province of Maguindanao shocked the world.
Andal Ampatuan Jnr allegedly led a group of about 100 gunmen in stopping a convoy of cars carrying relatives of a rival political candidate, their lawyers and accompanying journalists, then massacring them.
Ampatuan Jnr allegedly led the killings because he wanted to stop the rival political candidate, Esmael Mangudadatu, from challenging him in elections.
Thirty-two of the victims were journalists who were travelling with the convoy to witness Mangudatatu's wife, pregnant sister and other relatives lodge his candidacy to run against Ampatuan Jnr for the post of provincial governor.
Andal Ampatuan Jnr's father and namesake was at the time governor of Maguindanao and had been planning to install his son as successor.
Ampatuan Snr had ruled Maguindanao for nearly a decade, building a reputation over that time as a feared warlord who used a private army of a few thousand men to ensure he and his relatives won elections.
He ruled the province with the support of then-president Gloria Arroyo, who helped fund and legitimise his private army so it could be used as a proxy force against Muslim separatist rebels.
Ampatuan Snr and Jnr are among 64 people who are on trial in Manila, with a total of 93 suspects having been arrested but another 100 are on the run.
A day ahead of the two-year anniversary, human rights watchdog Amnesty International said the pressure was on President Benigno Aquino's government to speed up the "very slow wheels of justice" in the case.
"The government has to show that it has the ability to render justice in a massacre that constituted the world's worst ever attack on journalists and the world's worst ever election related single incident," it said.
Government prosecutor Nena Santos, who is handling the case, said her team was trying its best but the huge number of suspects and the stalling tactics of the defence lawyers had slowed proceedings.
Even on less complex cases the Philippine justice system is notoriously slow, with a trial taking an average six years to complete, according to government data.
Victims relatives are pinning their hopes on Aquino, who won elections last year in a landslide after promising to end the culture of impunity that has allowed so many powerful people in the Philippines to get away with crimes.
Government employee Ellver Cablitas, whose wife, radio broadcaster Marites, was one of those murdered, said he was looking to Aquino to keep his campaign promises.
"His advocacy was change, that those who are guilty must be punished so that is what he should deliver to us," Cablitas told AFP.
Relatives of the victims will hold a ceremony at the massacre site on Wednesday to mark the two-year anniversary.
On Tuesday relatives of some of those killed sued the then-president Gloria Arroyo for arming and supporting the alleged murderers.
While key leaders of the Ampatuan clan who are accused of orchestrating the killings have been charged, their trial is still in its early stages and prosecutors fear it could take years before anyone is punished for the crime.
Meanwhile, 100 suspects -- including members of the Ampatuan family, policemen and soldiers -- have yet to be caught, and relatives of the victims have complained that witnesses are being killed, intimidated or bribed.
"It has been two years and there is still no justice. Some (suspects) have been arraigned but others are still out there," said Reginald Dalmacio, 28, whose sister Leah, a newspaper journalist, was one of the 57 killed.
Philippine politics is well known for its violence, but the events of November 23, 2009, in a remote farming area of the southern province of Maguindanao shocked the world.
Andal Ampatuan Jnr allegedly led a group of about 100 gunmen in stopping a convoy of cars carrying relatives of a rival political candidate, their lawyers and accompanying journalists, then massacring them.
Ampatuan Jnr allegedly led the killings because he wanted to stop the rival political candidate, Esmael Mangudadatu, from challenging him in elections.
Thirty-two of the victims were journalists who were travelling with the convoy to witness Mangudatatu's wife, pregnant sister and other relatives lodge his candidacy to run against Ampatuan Jnr for the post of provincial governor.
Andal Ampatuan Jnr's father and namesake was at the time governor of Maguindanao and had been planning to install his son as successor.
Ampatuan Snr had ruled Maguindanao for nearly a decade, building a reputation over that time as a feared warlord who used a private army of a few thousand men to ensure he and his relatives won elections.
He ruled the province with the support of then-president Gloria Arroyo, who helped fund and legitimise his private army so it could be used as a proxy force against Muslim separatist rebels.
Ampatuan Snr and Jnr are among 64 people who are on trial in Manila, with a total of 93 suspects having been arrested but another 100 are on the run.
A day ahead of the two-year anniversary, human rights watchdog Amnesty International said the pressure was on President Benigno Aquino's government to speed up the "very slow wheels of justice" in the case.
"The government has to show that it has the ability to render justice in a massacre that constituted the world's worst ever attack on journalists and the world's worst ever election related single incident," it said.
Government prosecutor Nena Santos, who is handling the case, said her team was trying its best but the huge number of suspects and the stalling tactics of the defence lawyers had slowed proceedings.
Even on less complex cases the Philippine justice system is notoriously slow, with a trial taking an average six years to complete, according to government data.
Victims relatives are pinning their hopes on Aquino, who won elections last year in a landslide after promising to end the culture of impunity that has allowed so many powerful people in the Philippines to get away with crimes.
Government employee Ellver Cablitas, whose wife, radio broadcaster Marites, was one of those murdered, said he was looking to Aquino to keep his campaign promises.
"His advocacy was change, that those who are guilty must be punished so that is what he should deliver to us," Cablitas told AFP.
Relatives of the victims will hold a ceremony at the massacre site on Wednesday to mark the two-year anniversary.
On Tuesday relatives of some of those killed sued the then-president Gloria Arroyo for arming and supporting the alleged murderers.
Colleagues urge Gloria to resign congressional seat
Two party-list representatives on Tuesday urged former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to resign as Pampanga’s Second District representative after she was arrested last week for electoral sabotage.
Her arrest made Arroyo “unfit for public service," said ACT Teachers’ party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio.
“Since the electoral sabotage case is just the first of many charges that she will face as she is called to account for the numerous crimes against the people she committed during her presidency, it will become impossible for her to discharge her duties as representative," Tinio said in a text message to reporters.
Mrs. Arroyo is under hospital arrest at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) sued her Friday for electoral sabotage.
The former President is accused of giving orders to rig the 2007 poll results in favor of administration senatorial candidates.
Also, Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teodoro Casiño said Mrs. Arroyo should quit her congressional seat since “her continued membership further tarnishes the House’s honor."
“She has brought embarrassment and dishonor to the House. She should now do the House and her constituents a favor by resigning from Congress," he said in a separate text message to reporter.
Since July when she was diagnosed with a pinched nerve in her spine or multilevel cervical spondylosis, Mrs. Arroyo has not been attending congressional sessions, going went through a series of operations in the past months.
She was also diagnosed with bone mineral disorder and hypoparathyroidism.
'A personal matter'
House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said he “does not go along" with calls for Mrs. Arroyo’s resignation after her arrest.
“I always thought that in this country, meron pa ring presumption of innocence… At any rate, resignation is a personal matter and hindi naman pwedeng i-force ‘yan," he said.
The House Speaker noted he does not believe the former President has tarnished the House’s reputation, since the accusations against her were supposedly committed before her term as Pampanga congresswoman.
“… [I]f ever it will reach a point that she is unable to discharge’" her duties, the House may appoint a “caretaker" for the Second District of Pampanga, Belmonte said.
Three other Pampanga representatives or even Mrs. Arroyo’s son, Ang Galing Pinoy party-list Rep. Juan Miguel “Mikey" Arroyo, may be tasked to take charge of the district, according to the Speaker
Her arrest made Arroyo “unfit for public service," said ACT Teachers’ party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio.
“Since the electoral sabotage case is just the first of many charges that she will face as she is called to account for the numerous crimes against the people she committed during her presidency, it will become impossible for her to discharge her duties as representative," Tinio said in a text message to reporters.
Mrs. Arroyo is under hospital arrest at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) sued her Friday for electoral sabotage.
The former President is accused of giving orders to rig the 2007 poll results in favor of administration senatorial candidates.
Also, Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teodoro Casiño said Mrs. Arroyo should quit her congressional seat since “her continued membership further tarnishes the House’s honor."
“She has brought embarrassment and dishonor to the House. She should now do the House and her constituents a favor by resigning from Congress," he said in a separate text message to reporter.
Since July when she was diagnosed with a pinched nerve in her spine or multilevel cervical spondylosis, Mrs. Arroyo has not been attending congressional sessions, going went through a series of operations in the past months.
She was also diagnosed with bone mineral disorder and hypoparathyroidism.
'A personal matter'
House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said he “does not go along" with calls for Mrs. Arroyo’s resignation after her arrest.
“I always thought that in this country, meron pa ring presumption of innocence… At any rate, resignation is a personal matter and hindi naman pwedeng i-force ‘yan," he said.
The House Speaker noted he does not believe the former President has tarnished the House’s reputation, since the accusations against her were supposedly committed before her term as Pampanga congresswoman.
“… [I]f ever it will reach a point that she is unable to discharge’" her duties, the House may appoint a “caretaker" for the Second District of Pampanga, Belmonte said.
Three other Pampanga representatives or even Mrs. Arroyo’s son, Ang Galing Pinoy party-list Rep. Juan Miguel “Mikey" Arroyo, may be tasked to take charge of the district, according to the Speaker
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Palace readying 'at least 20 cases' against Gloria Arroyo
Apart from electoral sabotage charges, former President and current Pampanga Second District Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo should expect around 20 cases filed against her, including plunder which is also a non-bailable offense when evidence of guilt is strong, Malacañang said Monday.
Office of Political Affairs Secretary Ronald Llamas said, “Alam ko kasi merong almost 20 na hinahanda na mga cases, plunder, electoral sabotage, et cetara. So, sa tingin ko in the next few days or weeks ay baka ‘yung mga kaso na yan, ay magsimula nang isampa ang mga yan."
The Palace appears to be making good on the promise President Benigno Aquino III made last Sept. 28 that cases would be filed one after the other against Arroyo by November.
Also on Monday, Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teodoro Casiño, former congresswoman Liza Maza and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) chairperson Carol Araullo filed an urgent motion to resolve the complaint they filed against Mrs. Arroyo last September, and to immediately file a plunder case against her in relation to the allegedly anomalous national broadband deal (NBN) her administration entered into with the Chinese firm ZTE Corp. in 2007.
Arroyo was arrested last Friday for electoral sabotage, which carries a life sentence, at the St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig, Metro Manila.
Over the weekend, Aquino assured Arroyo that she would be given the chance to defend herself in court over charges of electoral sabotage.
But Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago warned on Monday that “a movement within Malacañang that is following blind vengeance against Rep. Arroyo" is “putting President Aquino in legal peril." She told reporters that, “There is political persecution, there is no due process of law, and there is inherent bad faith in the timing of filing of the case in the regular RTC and consequent issuance of a warrant of arrest."
Office of Political Affairs Secretary Ronald Llamas said, “Alam ko kasi merong almost 20 na hinahanda na mga cases, plunder, electoral sabotage, et cetara. So, sa tingin ko in the next few days or weeks ay baka ‘yung mga kaso na yan, ay magsimula nang isampa ang mga yan."
The Palace appears to be making good on the promise President Benigno Aquino III made last Sept. 28 that cases would be filed one after the other against Arroyo by November.
Also on Monday, Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teodoro Casiño, former congresswoman Liza Maza and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) chairperson Carol Araullo filed an urgent motion to resolve the complaint they filed against Mrs. Arroyo last September, and to immediately file a plunder case against her in relation to the allegedly anomalous national broadband deal (NBN) her administration entered into with the Chinese firm ZTE Corp. in 2007.
Arroyo was arrested last Friday for electoral sabotage, which carries a life sentence, at the St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig, Metro Manila.
Over the weekend, Aquino assured Arroyo that she would be given the chance to defend herself in court over charges of electoral sabotage.
But Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago warned on Monday that “a movement within Malacañang that is following blind vengeance against Rep. Arroyo" is “putting President Aquino in legal peril." She told reporters that, “There is political persecution, there is no due process of law, and there is inherent bad faith in the timing of filing of the case in the regular RTC and consequent issuance of a warrant of arrest."
Monday, November 21, 2011
Supreme Court may undo Philippine ex-president's arrest
Manila (Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN) - Former Philippine president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Arroyo may still get a reprieve if the Supreme Court declares as unconstitutional the joint Commission on Elections and the Department of Justice (Comelec-DOJ) panel that recommended her prosecution for alleged electoral fraud, officials said.
Comelec Commissioner Rene Sarmiento expressed fears that the high tribunal might short-circuit the current administration's move, regarded as unprecedented in the annals of Philippine jurisprudence, to arrest Arroyo for allegedly sabotaging the 2007 balloting and thus prevent her from leaving for medical treatment abroad. The Palace has said the trip was a cover to seek asylum and escape prosecution.
Sarmiento told reporters on Friday about the possibility Arroyo would be freed should the high tribunal rule in favor of the petitions questioning the constitutionality of the panel.
"If the Supreme Court would say it is illegal or unconstitutional, that might be the effect...it might nullify [her arrest]," said Sarmiento, who was among five of the seven members of the Comelec en banc who voted for the filing of electoral sabotage against Arroyo on Friday.
Supreme Court spokesperson Midas Marquez told the Philippine Daily Inquirer on Sunday that the petitions filed by Arroyo's husband, Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo, and former Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos remained pending.
"If the panel is adjudged as unconstitutional, then of course all the proceedings conducted by that panel would have to be nullified," Marquez said. "But again, we have to wait for the decision of the court. I don't want to preempt what the court will do next."
Arroyo, 64, who is suffering a rare bone ailment, is now under "hospital arrest" at St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig City, after Pasay City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Judge Jesus Mupas found probable cause to warrant trial of the nonbailable criminal charge penalised with life imprisonment.
The Comelec-DOJ panel early on Friday approved the resolution charging Arroyo, three days after Justice Secretary Leila de Lima ignored a temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court on her directive barring Arroyo from leaving the country for medical treatment.
Legal eagles say the TRO is an "extraordinary measure" to prevent irreparable harm against individuals brought by "awesome" state powers.
Aquino Express victim
Two election commissioners did not take part in the decision, claiming that they did not receive a copy of the joint Comelec-DOJ resolution.
Hours later, the document, along with voluminous attachments, was sent to the Pasay City RTC and the case was raffled off.
Mupas, who had previously been reprimanded for sitting on his cases, swiftly fired off the arrest warrant, also within hours, having found probable cause in the charge against Arroyo.
The Arroyo camp denounced the swift manner in which the case was "railroaded," claiming that the former President had just become a victim of the "P-Noy Express". (P-Noy is President Benigno Aquino III's popular moniker.)
While raising the possibility of a negative court decision, Sarmiento expressed confidence about the legality of the panel, which he said was based on Republic Act No. 9369 which allowed Comelec to partner with executive agencies for investigative purposes. "So we can say that we acted with legal suppor," he said.
But should the high court decide against the panel, Sarmiento said the Comelec's recourse was to conduct and resolve the investigation on its own without the justice department.
"But we won't go back to square one because there are already affidavits submitted," he said.
Lawyers for Arroyo and Abalos have pointed out that the Comelec is mandated under the Constitution to act as an independent body and in partnering with the justice department of the executive branch the joint panel had become nothing more than a "kangaroo court".
They pointed out that the panel was specifically created to prosecute the former President, just like the ill-fated Philippine Truth Commission, which the high tribunal had declared as unconstitutional for being a violation of the due process clause enshrined in the Bill of Rights.
They also said that Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes and De Lima were opposition lawyers during the elections.
De Lima has said that the joint panel was created "so that we'll have a smooth process since both Comelec and DOJ have concurrent jurisdiction on election offenses".
President Aquino has said he wants Arroyo in jail before Christmas to fulfill a campaign promise to prosecute the former President for alleged corruption and electoral sabotage.
Comelec Commissioner Rene Sarmiento expressed fears that the high tribunal might short-circuit the current administration's move, regarded as unprecedented in the annals of Philippine jurisprudence, to arrest Arroyo for allegedly sabotaging the 2007 balloting and thus prevent her from leaving for medical treatment abroad. The Palace has said the trip was a cover to seek asylum and escape prosecution.
Sarmiento told reporters on Friday about the possibility Arroyo would be freed should the high tribunal rule in favor of the petitions questioning the constitutionality of the panel.
"If the Supreme Court would say it is illegal or unconstitutional, that might be the effect...it might nullify [her arrest]," said Sarmiento, who was among five of the seven members of the Comelec en banc who voted for the filing of electoral sabotage against Arroyo on Friday.
Supreme Court spokesperson Midas Marquez told the Philippine Daily Inquirer on Sunday that the petitions filed by Arroyo's husband, Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo, and former Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos remained pending.
"If the panel is adjudged as unconstitutional, then of course all the proceedings conducted by that panel would have to be nullified," Marquez said. "But again, we have to wait for the decision of the court. I don't want to preempt what the court will do next."
Arroyo, 64, who is suffering a rare bone ailment, is now under "hospital arrest" at St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig City, after Pasay City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Judge Jesus Mupas found probable cause to warrant trial of the nonbailable criminal charge penalised with life imprisonment.
The Comelec-DOJ panel early on Friday approved the resolution charging Arroyo, three days after Justice Secretary Leila de Lima ignored a temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court on her directive barring Arroyo from leaving the country for medical treatment.
Legal eagles say the TRO is an "extraordinary measure" to prevent irreparable harm against individuals brought by "awesome" state powers.
Aquino Express victim
Two election commissioners did not take part in the decision, claiming that they did not receive a copy of the joint Comelec-DOJ resolution.
Hours later, the document, along with voluminous attachments, was sent to the Pasay City RTC and the case was raffled off.
Mupas, who had previously been reprimanded for sitting on his cases, swiftly fired off the arrest warrant, also within hours, having found probable cause in the charge against Arroyo.
The Arroyo camp denounced the swift manner in which the case was "railroaded," claiming that the former President had just become a victim of the "P-Noy Express". (P-Noy is President Benigno Aquino III's popular moniker.)
While raising the possibility of a negative court decision, Sarmiento expressed confidence about the legality of the panel, which he said was based on Republic Act No. 9369 which allowed Comelec to partner with executive agencies for investigative purposes. "So we can say that we acted with legal suppor," he said.
But should the high court decide against the panel, Sarmiento said the Comelec's recourse was to conduct and resolve the investigation on its own without the justice department.
"But we won't go back to square one because there are already affidavits submitted," he said.
Lawyers for Arroyo and Abalos have pointed out that the Comelec is mandated under the Constitution to act as an independent body and in partnering with the justice department of the executive branch the joint panel had become nothing more than a "kangaroo court".
They pointed out that the panel was specifically created to prosecute the former President, just like the ill-fated Philippine Truth Commission, which the high tribunal had declared as unconstitutional for being a violation of the due process clause enshrined in the Bill of Rights.
They also said that Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes and De Lima were opposition lawyers during the elections.
De Lima has said that the joint panel was created "so that we'll have a smooth process since both Comelec and DOJ have concurrent jurisdiction on election offenses".
President Aquino has said he wants Arroyo in jail before Christmas to fulfill a campaign promise to prosecute the former President for alleged corruption and electoral sabotage.
After rough presidency, Arroyo fights to stay free
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — With a sense of entitlement and a life of privilege familiar to a scion of the political elite, former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo successfully weathered coup attempts and corruption scandals during her nine years in power.
She once even banished her husband abroad when he became a liability.
Last week, like a common criminal, she was booked and fingerprinted by police on electoral fraud charges and barred from traveling abroad for medical treatment. She could spend the rest of her life in prison if convicted.
Arroyo will be the biggest test of President Benigno Aquino III's election promise to prosecute corruption, no matter how high, and restore public credibility as well as investor confidence. With her arrest, Aquino has struck a chord among Filipinos, fed up by a long line of corrupt leaders, starting from Ferdinand Marcos who epitomized greed and was removed in 1986 by Aquino's mother, also a president.
"If she's not guilty, why is she trying to escape?" asked Manila parking attendant Gerry Rimorin. "When she was president, she committed a lot of abuses and now it's all coming back to her. It's karma."
Since Arroyo's arrest, no demonstrations in her favor have taken place. Media editorials have praised Aquino, and the Arroyo-friendly, coup-prone military has stayed quiet.
"The lesson is clear," Rimorin said. "I'm happy that now even the almighty can be made to account for their wrongdoing because I've always felt that only the poor get to be arrested."
On Monday, a court allowed the 64-year-old Arroyo to be detained in an upscale hospital suite, where she's being treated for a bone ailment, prompting a small protest by left-wing activists who want her locked in a police cell.
"While it is important to be aware of President Benigno Aquino's class interests, he should be given full credit for attempting to hold former and current government officials accountable for their actions," said Gerard Finin, senior fellow at the East-West Center in Hawaii.
Arroyo was president from 2001 to 2010, and the case against her involves congressional polls in 2007, when she is accused of rigging the results to favor her candidates so she could keep the majority in parliament. According to the charges, there are witnesses who said Arroyo gave instruction to rig the vote.
Arroyo denies the charges and wants to leave the country for bone treatment she says is unavailable in the Philippines, but the government has blocked her. She has appeared in recent weeks in a neck-and-head brace.
Arroyo's legal spokesman Raul Lambino said her lawyers petitioned the Supreme Court to temporarily release her while the tribunal determines the legality of the joint Department of Justice and Commission on Elections committee that filed the charge against her in court.
The daughter of a former president, Arroyo is trained economist and classmate of former U.S. President Bill Clinton at Georgetown University. She entered politics in 1992, winning two subsequent terms as senator and then getting elected as vice president in 1998.
In the Philippines, the vice presidency is an elected post and not a presidential appointment. Because of that law, Arroyo became No. 2 to her rival, President Joseph Estrada, a film actor-turned-politician.
She distanced herself from Estrada after he was accused of corruption in 2000.
Estrada was despised by the influential Roman Catholic bishops for his drinking sessions and womanizing. A non-violent, military-backed people's revolt toppled Estrada in January 2001, and Arroyo was installed president.
With Estrada gone, Arroyo found herself occupying the Malacanang Palace on the banks of the Pasig River, where she had grown up when her father, President Diosdado Macapagal, held office from 1961 to 1965.
She slept in the same bedroom she had as the president's teenage daughter and sought out the simple wooden desk that her father used.
In a March 2001 Associated Press interview, Arroyo pledged to lead by example and declared, "We have to work on integrity down the line."
But murmurs about corruption soon grew around her.
A group of disgruntled young military officers took over an upscale Manila hotel and shopping mall in a 2003 mutiny, demanding Arroyo's resignation. They accused her of corruption, mismanagement and failure to stop graft among loyal generals who they said siphoned military funds meant for troops' bullets and combat boots.
The uprising ended peacefully, and the allegations were investigated, although accusations of military corruption persisted.
Arroyo vowed she would dedicate her remaining years to fixing the ailing economy and publicly declared she would not run in the 2004 elections.
She went back on her word, with disastrous consequences.
Arroyo was accused of using the government's money and power for her campaign, and was proclaimed the winner with a controversial, narrow margin.
Arroyo lacks charisma. She once told an interviewer "God wanted me to be president" and appears more comfortable speaking English than Tagalog, the language of the masses.
A year after being elected, Arroyo faced her worst crisis when wiretapped recordings of her voice surfaced with her and an election official allegedly discussing a winning margin for her.
Amid more coup rumors and plunging ratings, she went on national TV to say "I am sorry" but refused to step down and insisted she did not cheat.
Increasingly isolated and aloof, she lurched from one crisis to another, each chipping away at her legitimacy.
She sent her husband, lawyer Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo, abroad for a year when he and one of their two sons were implicated in channeling funds from an illegal numbers game, a charge they denied.
In 2006, she declared a state of emergency to stop another looming coup and used her broad powers to crack down on independent newspapers and lock up several opposition politicians.
Also accused in the latest congressional poll fraud case is a former governor of the notoriously corrupt Muslim autonomous region in the southern Philippines, Andal Ampatuan Sr.
Ampatuan is already on trial for murder in the country's worst politically motivated massacre of 57 people, including 32 journalists and opponents. He was among Arroyo's allies and after the massacre was expelled from her party.
In another scandal, Arroyo's husband and a former elections chief were implicated in a Senate hearing of receiving kickbacks for her approval of a multimillion-dollar nationwide broadband contract with China's ZTE Corp. She later backed out of the deal and Beijing denied any wrongdoing.
In a bid to retain some clout and influence that most Philippine politicians enjoy, Arroyo ran for a seat in the House of Representatives and won in her home province in Pampanga.
Just before leaving office, she named almost 1,000 allies to government positions, including her former chief of staff as the Supreme Court chief justice and two more allies as the government graft buster and army chief of staff.
Upon assuming office last June, Aquino replaced the corruption prosecutor and the military chief and locked horns with the chief justice.
As she fights her biggest battle to stay out of jail, Arroyo has increasingly run out of friends in power.
She once even banished her husband abroad when he became a liability.
Last week, like a common criminal, she was booked and fingerprinted by police on electoral fraud charges and barred from traveling abroad for medical treatment. She could spend the rest of her life in prison if convicted.
Arroyo will be the biggest test of President Benigno Aquino III's election promise to prosecute corruption, no matter how high, and restore public credibility as well as investor confidence. With her arrest, Aquino has struck a chord among Filipinos, fed up by a long line of corrupt leaders, starting from Ferdinand Marcos who epitomized greed and was removed in 1986 by Aquino's mother, also a president.
"If she's not guilty, why is she trying to escape?" asked Manila parking attendant Gerry Rimorin. "When she was president, she committed a lot of abuses and now it's all coming back to her. It's karma."
Since Arroyo's arrest, no demonstrations in her favor have taken place. Media editorials have praised Aquino, and the Arroyo-friendly, coup-prone military has stayed quiet.
"The lesson is clear," Rimorin said. "I'm happy that now even the almighty can be made to account for their wrongdoing because I've always felt that only the poor get to be arrested."
On Monday, a court allowed the 64-year-old Arroyo to be detained in an upscale hospital suite, where she's being treated for a bone ailment, prompting a small protest by left-wing activists who want her locked in a police cell.
"While it is important to be aware of President Benigno Aquino's class interests, he should be given full credit for attempting to hold former and current government officials accountable for their actions," said Gerard Finin, senior fellow at the East-West Center in Hawaii.
Arroyo was president from 2001 to 2010, and the case against her involves congressional polls in 2007, when she is accused of rigging the results to favor her candidates so she could keep the majority in parliament. According to the charges, there are witnesses who said Arroyo gave instruction to rig the vote.
Arroyo denies the charges and wants to leave the country for bone treatment she says is unavailable in the Philippines, but the government has blocked her. She has appeared in recent weeks in a neck-and-head brace.
Arroyo's legal spokesman Raul Lambino said her lawyers petitioned the Supreme Court to temporarily release her while the tribunal determines the legality of the joint Department of Justice and Commission on Elections committee that filed the charge against her in court.
The daughter of a former president, Arroyo is trained economist and classmate of former U.S. President Bill Clinton at Georgetown University. She entered politics in 1992, winning two subsequent terms as senator and then getting elected as vice president in 1998.
In the Philippines, the vice presidency is an elected post and not a presidential appointment. Because of that law, Arroyo became No. 2 to her rival, President Joseph Estrada, a film actor-turned-politician.
She distanced herself from Estrada after he was accused of corruption in 2000.
Estrada was despised by the influential Roman Catholic bishops for his drinking sessions and womanizing. A non-violent, military-backed people's revolt toppled Estrada in January 2001, and Arroyo was installed president.
With Estrada gone, Arroyo found herself occupying the Malacanang Palace on the banks of the Pasig River, where she had grown up when her father, President Diosdado Macapagal, held office from 1961 to 1965.
She slept in the same bedroom she had as the president's teenage daughter and sought out the simple wooden desk that her father used.
In a March 2001 Associated Press interview, Arroyo pledged to lead by example and declared, "We have to work on integrity down the line."
But murmurs about corruption soon grew around her.
A group of disgruntled young military officers took over an upscale Manila hotel and shopping mall in a 2003 mutiny, demanding Arroyo's resignation. They accused her of corruption, mismanagement and failure to stop graft among loyal generals who they said siphoned military funds meant for troops' bullets and combat boots.
The uprising ended peacefully, and the allegations were investigated, although accusations of military corruption persisted.
Arroyo vowed she would dedicate her remaining years to fixing the ailing economy and publicly declared she would not run in the 2004 elections.
She went back on her word, with disastrous consequences.
Arroyo was accused of using the government's money and power for her campaign, and was proclaimed the winner with a controversial, narrow margin.
Arroyo lacks charisma. She once told an interviewer "God wanted me to be president" and appears more comfortable speaking English than Tagalog, the language of the masses.
A year after being elected, Arroyo faced her worst crisis when wiretapped recordings of her voice surfaced with her and an election official allegedly discussing a winning margin for her.
Amid more coup rumors and plunging ratings, she went on national TV to say "I am sorry" but refused to step down and insisted she did not cheat.
Increasingly isolated and aloof, she lurched from one crisis to another, each chipping away at her legitimacy.
She sent her husband, lawyer Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo, abroad for a year when he and one of their two sons were implicated in channeling funds from an illegal numbers game, a charge they denied.
In 2006, she declared a state of emergency to stop another looming coup and used her broad powers to crack down on independent newspapers and lock up several opposition politicians.
Also accused in the latest congressional poll fraud case is a former governor of the notoriously corrupt Muslim autonomous region in the southern Philippines, Andal Ampatuan Sr.
Ampatuan is already on trial for murder in the country's worst politically motivated massacre of 57 people, including 32 journalists and opponents. He was among Arroyo's allies and after the massacre was expelled from her party.
In another scandal, Arroyo's husband and a former elections chief were implicated in a Senate hearing of receiving kickbacks for her approval of a multimillion-dollar nationwide broadband contract with China's ZTE Corp. She later backed out of the deal and Beijing denied any wrongdoing.
In a bid to retain some clout and influence that most Philippine politicians enjoy, Arroyo ran for a seat in the House of Representatives and won in her home province in Pampanga.
Just before leaving office, she named almost 1,000 allies to government positions, including her former chief of staff as the Supreme Court chief justice and two more allies as the government graft buster and army chief of staff.
Upon assuming office last June, Aquino replaced the corruption prosecutor and the military chief and locked horns with the chief justice.
As she fights her biggest battle to stay out of jail, Arroyo has increasingly run out of friends in power.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Erap wishes GMA speedy recovery...
Former President Joseph Estrada lauded the “hospital arrest” yesterday of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and said he wished her a speedy recovery so she can serve her sentence for the non-bailable crime of electoral sabotage.
“I feel vindicated,” Estrada said, adding, ”Let’s hope and pray for her continued recovery so that she can serve fully her sentence.”
“Now that the case is filed it’s about time that justice should be served,” Estrada pointed out.
It was Arroyo who sent Estrada to jail after she ousted him from office in January 2001. Estrada was charged with plunder, also a non-bailable crime, before the Sandiganbayan.
Estrada was in Singapore where The STAR reached him for comment about the imminent arrest of Arroyo after electoral fraud charges were formally filed in court. Ironically, Arroyo tried to fly to Singapore last Tuesday for a medical appointment but was prevented by airport authorities to board her plane, and she also had a booking to fly to the island nation yesterday afternoon.
Asked if his presence in Singapore had anything to do with checking on Arroyo’s planned trip there, Estrada quipped: “I am (her) advance party here.”
Levity aside, Estrada disclosed he was invited by Singaporean friends for a speaking engagement and a meeting with the Filipino community there.
He said he received the news of the arrest warrant of Arroyo from his son, Senate president pro tempore Jinggoy Estrada. The senator was arrested and jailed with his father on April 5, 2001, or three months after Estrada was ousted from office by Arroyo at the end of the EDSA-2 revolt. The arrest warrant was served on the elder Estrada at his residence at Polk Street, Greenhills in San Juan.
He recalled he and Jinggoy were taken straight to jail in Camp Crame, Quezon City, where their mug shots were taken.
Later, father and son were transferred to “barbed-wired” detention facility in Sta. Rosa, Laguna before subsequently taken to “hospital detention” at the Veterans’ Medical Center in Quezon City.
Jinggoy was released on bail in 2004 when he ran and won in the May 2004 elections.
Estrada was allowed to stay in detention at his own rest house in Tanay, Rizal until his plunder conviction on Sept. 12, 2007.
Arroyo granted Estrada executive pardon on Oct. 25, 2007. Estrada ran but lost to President Aquino in the May 2010 presidential elections.
Estrada posed no objection to the possible “hospital detention” for Arroyo, who is currently confined at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City where she underwent three spine surgeries this year.
“Let’s give it to her. She’s a sick lady,” Estrada pointed out.
According to Estrada, Arroyo should be detained, if not in Fort Sto. Domingo in Laguna where he was briefly detained, in a government hospital.
Asked if he would visit Arroyo in her “hospital detention,” Estrada quipped: “Why not? Arestado na s’ya, dadalawin ko s’ya (She has been arrested so I will visit her).”
Arroyo visited Estrada while he was in detention at the Veterans Hospital in Quezon City.
Jinggoy, for his part, even offered in jest the family rest house in Tanay, Rizal where his father was placed under house arrest during his plunder trial at the Sandiganbayan.
“We have a pony there which she can use to go around,” he said.
A day before he flew to Singapore, Estrada admitted he was in St. Luke’s in Taguig City not to visit Arroyo but to visit his daughter Jackie who gave birth to her third son.
Jackie was confined in a regular suite on the same floor as Arroyo.
“No, we did not visit Mrs. Arroyo. How and why will we do that? What would the people think of us, if we did,” Estrada remarked.
“We stayed barely an hour. We knew that Mrs. Arroyo was on the same floor, I can even see her aides around. But we just visited Jackie,” Estrada said.
Unlike what was done to him in 2001, Estrada cited Arroyo is still fortunate that President Aquino is “kind” to her.
“Mabait pa si P-Noy in the case of Gloria. They want to strengthen the cases against her to make sure all their evidence are strong. So it took them time,” Estrada noted.
Estrada welcomed the news of Arroyo’s arrest even after the Supreme Court earlier in the day granted her request for temporary restraining order (TRO) to stop the Aquino administration from imposing its travel ban on her while no formal charges were filed against her before the courts at that time.
“That’s within the law. It’s a technicality. So they (Aquino administration) are forced to speed up the case against her,” Estrada pointed out.
Estrada reiterated Arroyo is a flight risk unlike him, who was twice offered by Arroyo emissaries to sign a formal resignation letter and he would be allowed to go on self-exile abroad or else be sent to jail.
And twice, Estrada said, he rejected the Arroyo offer and was indeed sent to jail.
Estrada believed the arrest and detention of Arroyo would not lead to any constitutional or national security crisis in the country.
Jinggoy, however, said the arrest and detention of Arroyo is long overdue because of the many sins she had committed against the Filipino people.
“I feel vindicated,” Estrada said, adding, ”Let’s hope and pray for her continued recovery so that she can serve fully her sentence.”
“Now that the case is filed it’s about time that justice should be served,” Estrada pointed out.
It was Arroyo who sent Estrada to jail after she ousted him from office in January 2001. Estrada was charged with plunder, also a non-bailable crime, before the Sandiganbayan.
Estrada was in Singapore where The STAR reached him for comment about the imminent arrest of Arroyo after electoral fraud charges were formally filed in court. Ironically, Arroyo tried to fly to Singapore last Tuesday for a medical appointment but was prevented by airport authorities to board her plane, and she also had a booking to fly to the island nation yesterday afternoon.
Asked if his presence in Singapore had anything to do with checking on Arroyo’s planned trip there, Estrada quipped: “I am (her) advance party here.”
Levity aside, Estrada disclosed he was invited by Singaporean friends for a speaking engagement and a meeting with the Filipino community there.
He said he received the news of the arrest warrant of Arroyo from his son, Senate president pro tempore Jinggoy Estrada. The senator was arrested and jailed with his father on April 5, 2001, or three months after Estrada was ousted from office by Arroyo at the end of the EDSA-2 revolt. The arrest warrant was served on the elder Estrada at his residence at Polk Street, Greenhills in San Juan.
He recalled he and Jinggoy were taken straight to jail in Camp Crame, Quezon City, where their mug shots were taken.
Later, father and son were transferred to “barbed-wired” detention facility in Sta. Rosa, Laguna before subsequently taken to “hospital detention” at the Veterans’ Medical Center in Quezon City.
Jinggoy was released on bail in 2004 when he ran and won in the May 2004 elections.
Estrada was allowed to stay in detention at his own rest house in Tanay, Rizal until his plunder conviction on Sept. 12, 2007.
Arroyo granted Estrada executive pardon on Oct. 25, 2007. Estrada ran but lost to President Aquino in the May 2010 presidential elections.
Estrada posed no objection to the possible “hospital detention” for Arroyo, who is currently confined at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City where she underwent three spine surgeries this year.
“Let’s give it to her. She’s a sick lady,” Estrada pointed out.
According to Estrada, Arroyo should be detained, if not in Fort Sto. Domingo in Laguna where he was briefly detained, in a government hospital.
Asked if he would visit Arroyo in her “hospital detention,” Estrada quipped: “Why not? Arestado na s’ya, dadalawin ko s’ya (She has been arrested so I will visit her).”
Arroyo visited Estrada while he was in detention at the Veterans Hospital in Quezon City.
Jinggoy, for his part, even offered in jest the family rest house in Tanay, Rizal where his father was placed under house arrest during his plunder trial at the Sandiganbayan.
“We have a pony there which she can use to go around,” he said.
A day before he flew to Singapore, Estrada admitted he was in St. Luke’s in Taguig City not to visit Arroyo but to visit his daughter Jackie who gave birth to her third son.
Jackie was confined in a regular suite on the same floor as Arroyo.
“No, we did not visit Mrs. Arroyo. How and why will we do that? What would the people think of us, if we did,” Estrada remarked.
“We stayed barely an hour. We knew that Mrs. Arroyo was on the same floor, I can even see her aides around. But we just visited Jackie,” Estrada said.
Unlike what was done to him in 2001, Estrada cited Arroyo is still fortunate that President Aquino is “kind” to her.
“Mabait pa si P-Noy in the case of Gloria. They want to strengthen the cases against her to make sure all their evidence are strong. So it took them time,” Estrada noted.
Estrada welcomed the news of Arroyo’s arrest even after the Supreme Court earlier in the day granted her request for temporary restraining order (TRO) to stop the Aquino administration from imposing its travel ban on her while no formal charges were filed against her before the courts at that time.
“That’s within the law. It’s a technicality. So they (Aquino administration) are forced to speed up the case against her,” Estrada pointed out.
Estrada reiterated Arroyo is a flight risk unlike him, who was twice offered by Arroyo emissaries to sign a formal resignation letter and he would be allowed to go on self-exile abroad or else be sent to jail.
And twice, Estrada said, he rejected the Arroyo offer and was indeed sent to jail.
Estrada believed the arrest and detention of Arroyo would not lead to any constitutional or national security crisis in the country.
Jinggoy, however, said the arrest and detention of Arroyo is long overdue because of the many sins she had committed against the Filipino people.
Ex-President Gloria Arroyo subjected to police booking
After making several flight bookings and cancellations last week, the camp of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Saturday afternoon witnessed another "booking process" for the former leader – this time, before police authorities.
Mrs. Arroyo was subjected to police booking process, which normally includes taking of fingerprints and mugshot, at the St. Luke's Medical Center (SLMC) in Taguig City, a day after being served with an arrest warrant for electoral fraud.
Upon request by her legal counsels, the former chief executive was allowed to "no longer pose" for a regular police mugshot. Instead, his camp just submitted a file photograph of Mrs. Arroyo., a report on GMA's News TV Live said.
Ferdinand Topacio, a lawyer of Mrs. Arroyo's husband former First Gentleman Jose Miguel, said at a press conference said their camp will be filing before the Supreme Court next week an urgent motion seeking to immediately issue yet another temporary restraining order, this time against any "legal effects" of the actions of the joint panel that investigated the former president's alleged involvement in the 2007 electoral fraud.
The panel, composed of members of the Department of Justice and the Commission on Elections, on Friday filed electoral sabotage charges against Mrs. Arroyo and two others before a Pasay City court, which in turn issued an arrest warrant shortly after.
"Isususmbong po namin sa Korte Suprema ang ginawa sa amin... Hihingi kami uli ng TRO para ipa-suspend ang all legal effects ng joint DOJ-Comelec panel," he said.
Mrs. Arroyo was subjected to police booking process, which normally includes taking of fingerprints and mugshot, at the St. Luke's Medical Center (SLMC) in Taguig City, a day after being served with an arrest warrant for electoral fraud.
Upon request by her legal counsels, the former chief executive was allowed to "no longer pose" for a regular police mugshot. Instead, his camp just submitted a file photograph of Mrs. Arroyo., a report on GMA's News TV Live said.
Ferdinand Topacio, a lawyer of Mrs. Arroyo's husband former First Gentleman Jose Miguel, said at a press conference said their camp will be filing before the Supreme Court next week an urgent motion seeking to immediately issue yet another temporary restraining order, this time against any "legal effects" of the actions of the joint panel that investigated the former president's alleged involvement in the 2007 electoral fraud.
The panel, composed of members of the Department of Justice and the Commission on Elections, on Friday filed electoral sabotage charges against Mrs. Arroyo and two others before a Pasay City court, which in turn issued an arrest warrant shortly after.
"Isususmbong po namin sa Korte Suprema ang ginawa sa amin... Hihingi kami uli ng TRO para ipa-suspend ang all legal effects ng joint DOJ-Comelec panel," he said.
Arroyo now under 'hospital arrest' -- authorities
Authorities finally served the warrant of arrest against former president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo after a local court found probable cause for electoral sabotage charges.
She is now under the custody of the Southern Police District, according to Sr. Superintendent James Bucayo.
Police said Arroyo looked rested when the warrant of arrest was read to her.
"She's now under hospital arrest," added CIDG-National Capital Region chief Senior Superintendent Joel Coronel.
The warrant was served at around 6:30 P.M. in the presence of the former First Family, lawyers and former Cabinet members, Coronel added.
Arrest warrants were also served to Andal Sr. and former election officer Lintang Bedol.
Bucayo said Arroyo will be "booked" Saturday. Arroyo just woke up when they arrived at St. Lukes Medical Center in Taguig City. "She was expecting the warrant," he said.
The clerk of court of Pasay Regional Trial Court Branch 112 said presiding judge Jesus Mupas found probable cause that the ailing Arroyo, along with former Commission on Elections officials, may be liable for poll rigging.
Apart from Arroyo, an arrest warrant is also out against former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr.and former Comelec election supervisor Lintang Bedol.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Chief Superintendent Alan Purisima and the Taguig City Police chief Tomas Apolinario arrived at the St. Lukes Medical Center to serve the warrant of arrest.
Meanwhile, the Arroyo has filed a motion to block the arrest, arguing the regional court has no jurisdiction over the case but should be under the Sandiganbayan.
The accused may be detained either in NBI detention center or Camp Crame. But with Arroyo's condition, a hospital arrest may be likely. Electoral sabotage is non-bailable.
The warrant came hours after Comelec filed the case.
In a press conference, de Lima said this compels Arroyo to stay in the country.
"Mrs. Arroyo is compelled to stay in the country, and face the charges of electoral sabotage filed against her, bringing us closer to uncovering the truth behind the controversies surrounding the 2007 elections," she said in a press conference.
"Rest assured that throughout the judicial process, the government will exercise fairness and impartiality, and will uphold every right that Mrs. Arroyo, as an accused, is entitled to under the constitution," she added.
Earlier in the day, Comelec has signed a resolution seeking to file electoral sabotage charges against former President, now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"COMELEC en banc has signed a resolution calling for the filing of a case for electoral sabotage against former president GMA," James Jimenez, Comelec spokesman said earlier in the day.
Jimenez said commissioners voted 5-2. Two other commissioners abstained from voting.
Former First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo is not included in the charge sheet due to insufficient evidence.
Responding to critics of the charge's "timing," Jimenez said Comelec's decision was not necessarily to coincide with Arroyo's plan to leave for Singapore.
"Sinusunod lang po namin yung tamang proseso," Jimenez added in a television interview.
Based on Republic Act No. 6646, electoral sabotage constitutes altering of votes during an election, tampering numbers on "large scale or in substantial numbers."
It is punishable by life imprisonment.
The Comelec vote came ahead of the Supreme Court's en banc session on the government's motion for reconsideration on an earlier issued temporary restraining order against the watchlist order on Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel.
This development might again prevent the ailing Arroyo from leaving the country.
She is now under the custody of the Southern Police District, according to Sr. Superintendent James Bucayo.
Police said Arroyo looked rested when the warrant of arrest was read to her.
"She's now under hospital arrest," added CIDG-National Capital Region chief Senior Superintendent Joel Coronel.
The warrant was served at around 6:30 P.M. in the presence of the former First Family, lawyers and former Cabinet members, Coronel added.
Arrest warrants were also served to Andal Sr. and former election officer Lintang Bedol.
Bucayo said Arroyo will be "booked" Saturday. Arroyo just woke up when they arrived at St. Lukes Medical Center in Taguig City. "She was expecting the warrant," he said.
The clerk of court of Pasay Regional Trial Court Branch 112 said presiding judge Jesus Mupas found probable cause that the ailing Arroyo, along with former Commission on Elections officials, may be liable for poll rigging.
Apart from Arroyo, an arrest warrant is also out against former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr.and former Comelec election supervisor Lintang Bedol.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Chief Superintendent Alan Purisima and the Taguig City Police chief Tomas Apolinario arrived at the St. Lukes Medical Center to serve the warrant of arrest.
Meanwhile, the Arroyo has filed a motion to block the arrest, arguing the regional court has no jurisdiction over the case but should be under the Sandiganbayan.
The accused may be detained either in NBI detention center or Camp Crame. But with Arroyo's condition, a hospital arrest may be likely. Electoral sabotage is non-bailable.
The warrant came hours after Comelec filed the case.
In a press conference, de Lima said this compels Arroyo to stay in the country.
"Mrs. Arroyo is compelled to stay in the country, and face the charges of electoral sabotage filed against her, bringing us closer to uncovering the truth behind the controversies surrounding the 2007 elections," she said in a press conference.
"Rest assured that throughout the judicial process, the government will exercise fairness and impartiality, and will uphold every right that Mrs. Arroyo, as an accused, is entitled to under the constitution," she added.
Earlier in the day, Comelec has signed a resolution seeking to file electoral sabotage charges against former President, now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"COMELEC en banc has signed a resolution calling for the filing of a case for electoral sabotage against former president GMA," James Jimenez, Comelec spokesman said earlier in the day.
Jimenez said commissioners voted 5-2. Two other commissioners abstained from voting.
Former First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo is not included in the charge sheet due to insufficient evidence.
Responding to critics of the charge's "timing," Jimenez said Comelec's decision was not necessarily to coincide with Arroyo's plan to leave for Singapore.
"Sinusunod lang po namin yung tamang proseso," Jimenez added in a television interview.
Based on Republic Act No. 6646, electoral sabotage constitutes altering of votes during an election, tampering numbers on "large scale or in substantial numbers."
It is punishable by life imprisonment.
The Comelec vote came ahead of the Supreme Court's en banc session on the government's motion for reconsideration on an earlier issued temporary restraining order against the watchlist order on Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel.
This development might again prevent the ailing Arroyo from leaving the country.
Friday, November 18, 2011
TRO on watch order list on Arroyos reversed, contrary to SC spokesman’s announcement
Contrary to the announcement of Supreme Court Spokesman Midas Marquez that the High Court voted 8-5 reiterating the temporary restraining order on the Watch List Order of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima issued on former President Gloria Arroyo and her husband, a highly reliable source said the tribunal, voting 7-6, actually declared its Nov. 15 TRO inoperative following the failure of the Arroyo camp to comply with all the conditions set by the court.
The seven who voted that the TRO is inoperative were Senior Justice Antonio Carpio, Associate Justices Maria Lourdes Sereno, Bienvenido Reyes, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, Jose Mendoza, Martin Villarama and Roberto Abad.
The six who stood firm on the TRO were Chief Justice Renato Corona, Presbitero Velasco Jr., Arturo Brion, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin and Jose Perez.
The source said the Arroyos did not comply with the second condition requiring the former First Couple to appoint a legal representative to receive subpoenas, orders and other legal processes on their behalf while they are abroad.
The two other conditions were a bond of P2 million each and a requirement that they report to Philippine consulates in the countries they will visit. The legal counsels of the Arroyos also have to coordinate their travels.
The Department of Justice last month placed Arroyo, her husband and about 40 others accused of electoral sabotage in the 2007 elections on the watch list. Their suspected involvement in the poll fraud in North Cotabato, South Cotabato, and Maguindanao is being investigated by a joint panel of the Commmission on Elections and DOJ.
The seven who voted that the TRO is inoperative were Senior Justice Antonio Carpio, Associate Justices Maria Lourdes Sereno, Bienvenido Reyes, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, Jose Mendoza, Martin Villarama and Roberto Abad.
The six who stood firm on the TRO were Chief Justice Renato Corona, Presbitero Velasco Jr., Arturo Brion, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin and Jose Perez.
The source said the Arroyos did not comply with the second condition requiring the former First Couple to appoint a legal representative to receive subpoenas, orders and other legal processes on their behalf while they are abroad.
The two other conditions were a bond of P2 million each and a requirement that they report to Philippine consulates in the countries they will visit. The legal counsels of the Arroyos also have to coordinate their travels.
The Department of Justice last month placed Arroyo, her husband and about 40 others accused of electoral sabotage in the 2007 elections on the watch list. Their suspected involvement in the poll fraud in North Cotabato, South Cotabato, and Maguindanao is being investigated by a joint panel of the Commmission on Elections and DOJ.
Philippines charges Arroyo with election fraud
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Authorities charged former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo with electoral fraud Friday as part of a high-profile tug of war to keep her in the country and prevent any chance of her turning fugitive.
Arroyo denies wrongdoing, and says she does not intend to flee justice but wants to go abroad for necessary medical treatment for a bone ailment.
In a legal victory for Arroyo, the Supreme Court upheld her right to travel, at least temporarily, until a lower court delivers a new ruling on whether she can leave the country now that formal charges have been filed.
The Supreme Court decision could set the stage for a possible second airport showdown this week, with Arroyo's aides saying she could board a plane out of Manila later Friday and the government adamant to stop her.
In a drama that has galvanized the Philippines, Arroyo tried to leave the country Tuesday with her husband, saying she needed the expertise of foreign medical facilities. But she was stopped at the Manila airport by authorities who said she was still under investigation, and that she might become a fugitive.
The election fraud charges, which carry a penalty of 40 years imprisonment, were filed Friday by the Commission on Election at the Pasay Regional Trial Court in Manila.
Judge Jesus Mupas will now decide whether to issue an arrest warrant, said Elections Commission Chairman Sixto Brillantes. He said he also asked for a court order barring Arroyo's travel.
Arroyo has denied any wrongdoing, and her legal spokesman Raul Lambino said Friday the case against her has been fabricated.
"This is a high form of injustice," Lambino said.
Arroyo lawyer Ferdinand Topacio deplored the "indecent haste" and criticized what he said was the government's "emerging pattern of persecution."
The Supreme Court last week granted Arroyo a temporary clearance to travel, but the government still refused to let her go, with Justice Secretary Leila de Lima saying she may be seeking political asylum abroad.
In the fast-moving legal drama, the Supreme Court on Friday rejected the government's travel ban on Arroyo that was issued before the formal charges were filed. Court spokesman Midas Marquez said that Arroyo and her husband were free to leave until another court rules otherwise.
The charges stem from allegations that Arroyo conspired with officials to tamper with results of 2007 congressional polls to favor her candidates.
Now that charges have been filed, Arroyo likely faces arrest, Sen. Francis Escudero said.
Arroyo was recovering in the hospital since her failed attempt to leave the country Tuesday, and it was doubtful she would be immediately hauled to jail even if the arrest warrant was issued.
After stepping down last year, Arroyo, 64, was elected to the House of Representatives and immediately faced at least half a dozen complaints, also alleging she diverted state funds for her campaign effort and benefited from foreign contracts.
The Justice Department is still investigating the other complaints.
Her successor and staunch critic, President Benigno Aquino III, was overwhelmingly elected on promises to rid the Philippines of corruption and has said he wants to start with Arroyo.
Arroyo would be the second Philippine president to face trial, after her predecessor, Joseph Estrada, was toppled in a 2001 military-backed revolt on corruption charges and sentenced to life. He was later pardoned by Arroyo.
Arroyo denies wrongdoing, and says she does not intend to flee justice but wants to go abroad for necessary medical treatment for a bone ailment.
In a legal victory for Arroyo, the Supreme Court upheld her right to travel, at least temporarily, until a lower court delivers a new ruling on whether she can leave the country now that formal charges have been filed.
The Supreme Court decision could set the stage for a possible second airport showdown this week, with Arroyo's aides saying she could board a plane out of Manila later Friday and the government adamant to stop her.
In a drama that has galvanized the Philippines, Arroyo tried to leave the country Tuesday with her husband, saying she needed the expertise of foreign medical facilities. But she was stopped at the Manila airport by authorities who said she was still under investigation, and that she might become a fugitive.
The election fraud charges, which carry a penalty of 40 years imprisonment, were filed Friday by the Commission on Election at the Pasay Regional Trial Court in Manila.
Judge Jesus Mupas will now decide whether to issue an arrest warrant, said Elections Commission Chairman Sixto Brillantes. He said he also asked for a court order barring Arroyo's travel.
Arroyo has denied any wrongdoing, and her legal spokesman Raul Lambino said Friday the case against her has been fabricated.
"This is a high form of injustice," Lambino said.
Arroyo lawyer Ferdinand Topacio deplored the "indecent haste" and criticized what he said was the government's "emerging pattern of persecution."
The Supreme Court last week granted Arroyo a temporary clearance to travel, but the government still refused to let her go, with Justice Secretary Leila de Lima saying she may be seeking political asylum abroad.
In the fast-moving legal drama, the Supreme Court on Friday rejected the government's travel ban on Arroyo that was issued before the formal charges were filed. Court spokesman Midas Marquez said that Arroyo and her husband were free to leave until another court rules otherwise.
The charges stem from allegations that Arroyo conspired with officials to tamper with results of 2007 congressional polls to favor her candidates.
Now that charges have been filed, Arroyo likely faces arrest, Sen. Francis Escudero said.
Arroyo was recovering in the hospital since her failed attempt to leave the country Tuesday, and it was doubtful she would be immediately hauled to jail even if the arrest warrant was issued.
After stepping down last year, Arroyo, 64, was elected to the House of Representatives and immediately faced at least half a dozen complaints, also alleging she diverted state funds for her campaign effort and benefited from foreign contracts.
The Justice Department is still investigating the other complaints.
Her successor and staunch critic, President Benigno Aquino III, was overwhelmingly elected on promises to rid the Philippines of corruption and has said he wants to start with Arroyo.
Arroyo would be the second Philippine president to face trial, after her predecessor, Joseph Estrada, was toppled in a 2001 military-backed revolt on corruption charges and sentenced to life. He was later pardoned by Arroyo.
TRO on watch order list on Arroyos reversed, contrary to SC spokesman’s announcement
Contrary to the announcement of Supreme Court Spokesman Midas Marquez that the High Court voted 8-5 reiterating the temporary restraining order on the Watch List Order of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima issued on former President Gloria Arroyo and her husband, a highly reliable source said the tribunal, voting 7-6, actually declared its Nov. 15 TRO inoperative following the failure of the Arroyo camp to comply with all the conditions set by the court.
The seven who voted that the TRO is inoperative were Senior Justice Antonio Carpio, Associate Justices Maria Lourdes Sereno, Bienvenido Reyes, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, Jose Mendoza, Martin Villarama and Roberto Abad.
The six who stood firm on the TRO were Chief Justice Renato Corona, Presbitero Velasco Jr., Arturo Brion, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin and Jose Perez.
The source said the Arroyos did not comply with the second condition requiring the former First Couple to appoint a legal representative to receive subpoenas, orders and other legal processes on their behalf while they are abroad.
The two other conditions were a bond of P2 million each and a requirement that they report to Philippine consulates in the countries they will visit. The legal counsels of the Arroyos also have to coordinate their travels.
The Department of Justice last month placed Arroyo, her husband and about 40 others accused of electoral sabotage in the 2007 elections on the watch list. Their suspected involvement in the poll fraud in North Cotabato, South Cotabato, and Maguindanao is being investigated by a joint panel of the Commmission on Elections and DOJ.
The seven who voted that the TRO is inoperative were Senior Justice Antonio Carpio, Associate Justices Maria Lourdes Sereno, Bienvenido Reyes, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, Jose Mendoza, Martin Villarama and Roberto Abad.
The six who stood firm on the TRO were Chief Justice Renato Corona, Presbitero Velasco Jr., Arturo Brion, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin and Jose Perez.
The source said the Arroyos did not comply with the second condition requiring the former First Couple to appoint a legal representative to receive subpoenas, orders and other legal processes on their behalf while they are abroad.
The two other conditions were a bond of P2 million each and a requirement that they report to Philippine consulates in the countries they will visit. The legal counsels of the Arroyos also have to coordinate their travels.
The Department of Justice last month placed Arroyo, her husband and about 40 others accused of electoral sabotage in the 2007 elections on the watch list. Their suspected involvement in the poll fraud in North Cotabato, South Cotabato, and Maguindanao is being investigated by a joint panel of the Commmission on Elections and DOJ.
Supreme Court: Implement TRO on Arroyos
The Supreme Court (SC) on Friday maintained its decision in issuing a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the watchlist order on the Arroyo couple.
At the same time, SC has ordered Department of Justice Leila de Lima to explain why she did not heed the TRO issued by the high court Tuesday.
High court spokesman Midas Marquez said SC has denied the solicitor general's motion for reconsideration on the TRO, effectively allowing former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her husband, Jose Miguel to leave the country.
"I'm calling on executive officials, the court has already, in effect, reiterated its TRO. I hope this TRO will be respected and complied with," Marquez said.
SC also asks lawyer Ferdinand Topacio to submit supplemental compliance showing his authority to receive court summons.
Malacanang however is firm that Arroyo still can't fly because the Arroyo camp has not complied with SC's order to Topacio, and that the formal resolution has yet to arrive at the Palace.
"We are waiting for the formal resolution, we cannot rely on an announcement from a court administrator," said Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda.
Lacierda noted that Malacanang also wishes Arroyo well on her health but any hurried attempt to leave the country will only worsen her condition.
"May we request the former president to remain in the hospital," he added.
Marquez noted that SC also dismissed a motion to move the oral arguments, and the original schedule stays.
He added that the electoral sabotage case filed by the Commission on Election before the Pasay RTC is altogether a different case.
Contempt vs. De Lima
Marquez said De Lima should explain herself within the "non-extendable" period of 10 days on her refusal to acknowledge the TRO.
It was De Lima who ordered the Bureau of Immigration not to allow the Arroyos to fly to Singapore Wednesday.
"DoJ Sec. Leila de Lima is directed to show cause and comply within non-extendable period of 10 days why she should not be held in contempt of court," Marquez said.
He said De Lima should also explain her "disrespect to Supreme Court."
If proven guilty, De Lima may face a fine of not more than P30,000 or an imprisonment of a maximum of six months, or both.
Arroyo departure
On Thursday, the Arroyos dropped their plans to fly to Singapore to seek medical treatment due to health problems. Reports say the couple are flying out Friday night.
Lawyer Raul Lambino said in a separate television interview that Arroyo is now taking dozens of tablets a day.
"She's taking up more than 25 tablets everyday, some injectables. You can see the kind of situation she's now in, sana ay matignan kung ano talaga ang mabuti para sa kaniyang kalusugan," he said.
At the same time, SC has ordered Department of Justice Leila de Lima to explain why she did not heed the TRO issued by the high court Tuesday.
High court spokesman Midas Marquez said SC has denied the solicitor general's motion for reconsideration on the TRO, effectively allowing former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her husband, Jose Miguel to leave the country.
"I'm calling on executive officials, the court has already, in effect, reiterated its TRO. I hope this TRO will be respected and complied with," Marquez said.
SC also asks lawyer Ferdinand Topacio to submit supplemental compliance showing his authority to receive court summons.
Malacanang however is firm that Arroyo still can't fly because the Arroyo camp has not complied with SC's order to Topacio, and that the formal resolution has yet to arrive at the Palace.
"We are waiting for the formal resolution, we cannot rely on an announcement from a court administrator," said Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda.
Lacierda noted that Malacanang also wishes Arroyo well on her health but any hurried attempt to leave the country will only worsen her condition.
"May we request the former president to remain in the hospital," he added.
Marquez noted that SC also dismissed a motion to move the oral arguments, and the original schedule stays.
He added that the electoral sabotage case filed by the Commission on Election before the Pasay RTC is altogether a different case.
Contempt vs. De Lima
Marquez said De Lima should explain herself within the "non-extendable" period of 10 days on her refusal to acknowledge the TRO.
It was De Lima who ordered the Bureau of Immigration not to allow the Arroyos to fly to Singapore Wednesday.
"DoJ Sec. Leila de Lima is directed to show cause and comply within non-extendable period of 10 days why she should not be held in contempt of court," Marquez said.
He said De Lima should also explain her "disrespect to Supreme Court."
If proven guilty, De Lima may face a fine of not more than P30,000 or an imprisonment of a maximum of six months, or both.
Arroyo departure
On Thursday, the Arroyos dropped their plans to fly to Singapore to seek medical treatment due to health problems. Reports say the couple are flying out Friday night.
Lawyer Raul Lambino said in a separate television interview that Arroyo is now taking dozens of tablets a day.
"She's taking up more than 25 tablets everyday, some injectables. You can see the kind of situation she's now in, sana ay matignan kung ano talaga ang mabuti para sa kaniyang kalusugan," he said.
Ram’s text messages reveal money dispute
Ram Revilla’s text messages further boosted speculations that money dispute is the main motive behind his murder last Oct. 28.
A report from TV Patrol said that a forensic exam conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) showed that Ram exchanged messages with his 20-year-old sister Maria Ragelyn Gail two days before he was murdered.
Ram was asking for his allowance.
His text message read, “Bigay niyo naman ang allowance ko sobra naman kayo. Sinira niyo na nga ako kay daddy tas ganyan pa. Sobra na naman yan Ga.”
Lower allowance
Gail replied that their father, Ramon Revilla Sr., reduced their allowance to P150,000 because he was angry at their mother, Genelyn Magsaysay.
"Kaya naman binawasan ni Daddy yung allowance kasi galit na galit kay Mommy. Dapat sakto talaga yung allowance. 200k dapat allowance niyo pa rin pero dahil sa galit ni Daddy kay Mommy, ginawa niya 150k," Gail’s text message read.
Ram replied and asked her not to ruin his reputation with their dad. “Salamat. Please lang wag naman sana manira kay daddy. Pati yung sobrang past na sinakal kita pati 'yun ginamit para magalit si daddy sakin,” Ram’s text message said.
He also wants to settle differences among his siblings and mentioned that he texted Ramona, one of the suspects in the murder case.
"Malaki na tayo, magkaayos na dapat. Hindi maganda puro away. Nag-text ako kay Mara (Maria Ramona) kanina na sana maayos na lahat at magkabati-bati na tayo," his text message went on.
Gail also mentioned in her text message that their mother failed to pay their electric bill even though she already received the money to settle the account.
"Nagbigay ako kay Mommy nung money for Meralco before. Siya yung hindi nakabayad," Gail said in her text message.
How it started
A day before he was murdered, Ram sent a text message that said the rift in the family started when his younger brother, Ramon Joseph or RJ (a suspect in the murder case) sold his car at a price below its market.
Ramgen texted, "Alam ko san nag-umpisa ito, sa Strada ni Joseph. Wag na kayo mag maang-maangan pa. Sinabi ko kasi sobra mura ng benta."
The Parañaque City Police said they will submit the transcript of the text messages to the court. The CIDG used a cellular phone forensic machine to extract the text messages from Ram’s phone.
“Kung anuman po ang evaluation ng ating prosecutors na hahawak ng kaso, ibibigay po natin ang decision na iyon sa kanya,” Senior Superintendent Billy Beltran said.
A report from TV Patrol said that a forensic exam conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) showed that Ram exchanged messages with his 20-year-old sister Maria Ragelyn Gail two days before he was murdered.
Ram was asking for his allowance.
His text message read, “Bigay niyo naman ang allowance ko sobra naman kayo. Sinira niyo na nga ako kay daddy tas ganyan pa. Sobra na naman yan Ga.”
Lower allowance
Gail replied that their father, Ramon Revilla Sr., reduced their allowance to P150,000 because he was angry at their mother, Genelyn Magsaysay.
"Kaya naman binawasan ni Daddy yung allowance kasi galit na galit kay Mommy. Dapat sakto talaga yung allowance. 200k dapat allowance niyo pa rin pero dahil sa galit ni Daddy kay Mommy, ginawa niya 150k," Gail’s text message read.
Ram replied and asked her not to ruin his reputation with their dad. “Salamat. Please lang wag naman sana manira kay daddy. Pati yung sobrang past na sinakal kita pati 'yun ginamit para magalit si daddy sakin,” Ram’s text message said.
He also wants to settle differences among his siblings and mentioned that he texted Ramona, one of the suspects in the murder case.
"Malaki na tayo, magkaayos na dapat. Hindi maganda puro away. Nag-text ako kay Mara (Maria Ramona) kanina na sana maayos na lahat at magkabati-bati na tayo," his text message went on.
Gail also mentioned in her text message that their mother failed to pay their electric bill even though she already received the money to settle the account.
"Nagbigay ako kay Mommy nung money for Meralco before. Siya yung hindi nakabayad," Gail said in her text message.
How it started
A day before he was murdered, Ram sent a text message that said the rift in the family started when his younger brother, Ramon Joseph or RJ (a suspect in the murder case) sold his car at a price below its market.
Ramgen texted, "Alam ko san nag-umpisa ito, sa Strada ni Joseph. Wag na kayo mag maang-maangan pa. Sinabi ko kasi sobra mura ng benta."
The Parañaque City Police said they will submit the transcript of the text messages to the court. The CIDG used a cellular phone forensic machine to extract the text messages from Ram’s phone.
“Kung anuman po ang evaluation ng ating prosecutors na hahawak ng kaso, ibibigay po natin ang decision na iyon sa kanya,” Senior Superintendent Billy Beltran said.
Ram’s text messages reveal money dispute
Ram Revilla’s text messages further boosted speculations that money dispute is the main motive behind his murder last Oct. 28.
A report from TV Patrol said that a forensic exam conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) showed that Ram exchanged messages with his 20-year-old sister Maria Ragelyn Gail two days before he was murdered.
Ram was asking for his allowance.
His text message read, “Bigay niyo naman ang allowance ko sobra naman kayo. Sinira niyo na nga ako kay daddy tas ganyan pa. Sobra na naman yan Ga.”
Lower allowance
Gail replied that their father, Ramon Revilla Sr., reduced their allowance to P150,000 because he was angry at their mother, Genelyn Magsaysay.
"Kaya naman binawasan ni Daddy yung allowance kasi galit na galit kay Mommy. Dapat sakto talaga yung allowance. 200k dapat allowance niyo pa rin pero dahil sa galit ni Daddy kay Mommy, ginawa niya 150k," Gail’s text message read.
Ram replied and asked her not to ruin his reputation with their dad. “Salamat. Please lang wag naman sana manira kay daddy. Pati yung sobrang past na sinakal kita pati 'yun ginamit para magalit si daddy sakin,” Ram’s text message said.
He also wants to settle differences among his siblings and mentioned that he texted Ramona, one of the suspects in the murder case.
"Malaki na tayo, magkaayos na dapat. Hindi maganda puro away. Nag-text ako kay Mara (Maria Ramona) kanina na sana maayos na lahat at magkabati-bati na tayo," his text message went on.
Gail also mentioned in her text message that their mother failed to pay their electric bill even though she already received the money to settle the account.
"Nagbigay ako kay Mommy nung money for Meralco before. Siya yung hindi nakabayad," Gail said in her text message.
How it started
A day before he was murdered, Ram sent a text message that said the rift in the family started when his younger brother, Ramon Joseph or RJ (a suspect in the murder case) sold his car at a price below its market.
Ramgen texted, "Alam ko san nag-umpisa ito, sa Strada ni Joseph. Wag na kayo mag maang-maangan pa. Sinabi ko kasi sobra mura ng benta."
The Parañaque City Police said they will submit the transcript of the text messages to the court. The CIDG used a cellular phone forensic machine to extract the text messages from Ram’s phone.
“Kung anuman po ang evaluation ng ating prosecutors na hahawak ng kaso, ibibigay po natin ang decision na iyon sa kanya,” Senior Superintendent Billy Beltran said.
A report from TV Patrol said that a forensic exam conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) showed that Ram exchanged messages with his 20-year-old sister Maria Ragelyn Gail two days before he was murdered.
Ram was asking for his allowance.
His text message read, “Bigay niyo naman ang allowance ko sobra naman kayo. Sinira niyo na nga ako kay daddy tas ganyan pa. Sobra na naman yan Ga.”
Lower allowance
Gail replied that their father, Ramon Revilla Sr., reduced their allowance to P150,000 because he was angry at their mother, Genelyn Magsaysay.
"Kaya naman binawasan ni Daddy yung allowance kasi galit na galit kay Mommy. Dapat sakto talaga yung allowance. 200k dapat allowance niyo pa rin pero dahil sa galit ni Daddy kay Mommy, ginawa niya 150k," Gail’s text message read.
Ram replied and asked her not to ruin his reputation with their dad. “Salamat. Please lang wag naman sana manira kay daddy. Pati yung sobrang past na sinakal kita pati 'yun ginamit para magalit si daddy sakin,” Ram’s text message said.
He also wants to settle differences among his siblings and mentioned that he texted Ramona, one of the suspects in the murder case.
"Malaki na tayo, magkaayos na dapat. Hindi maganda puro away. Nag-text ako kay Mara (Maria Ramona) kanina na sana maayos na lahat at magkabati-bati na tayo," his text message went on.
Gail also mentioned in her text message that their mother failed to pay their electric bill even though she already received the money to settle the account.
"Nagbigay ako kay Mommy nung money for Meralco before. Siya yung hindi nakabayad," Gail said in her text message.
How it started
A day before he was murdered, Ram sent a text message that said the rift in the family started when his younger brother, Ramon Joseph or RJ (a suspect in the murder case) sold his car at a price below its market.
Ramgen texted, "Alam ko san nag-umpisa ito, sa Strada ni Joseph. Wag na kayo mag maang-maangan pa. Sinabi ko kasi sobra mura ng benta."
The Parañaque City Police said they will submit the transcript of the text messages to the court. The CIDG used a cellular phone forensic machine to extract the text messages from Ram’s phone.
“Kung anuman po ang evaluation ng ating prosecutors na hahawak ng kaso, ibibigay po natin ang decision na iyon sa kanya,” Senior Superintendent Billy Beltran said.
Arroyo now under 'hospital arrest' -- authorities
Authorities finally served the warrant of arrest against former president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo after a local court found probable cause for electoral sabotage charges.
She is now under the custody of the Southern Police District, according to Sr. Superintendent James Bucayo.
Police said Arroyo looked rested when the warrant of arrest was read to her.
"She's now under hospital arrest," added CIDG-National Capital Region chief Senior Superintendent Joel Coronel.
The warrant was served at around 6:30 P.M. in the presence of the former First Family, lawyers and former Cabinet members, Coronel added.
Arrest warrants were also served to Andal Sr. and former election officer Lintang Bedol.
Bucayo said Arroyo will be "booked" Saturday. Arroyo just woke up when they arrived at St. Lukes Medical Center in Taguig City. "She was expecting the warrant," he said.
The clerk of court of Pasay Regional Trial Court Branch 112 said presiding judge Jesus Mupas found probable cause that the ailing Arroyo, along with former Commission on Elections officials, may be liable for poll rigging.
Apart from Arroyo, an arrest warrant is also out against former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr.and former Comelec election supervisor Lintang Bedol.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Chief Superintendent Alan Purisima and the Taguig City Police chief Tomas Apolinario arrived at the St. Lukes Medical Center to serve the warrant of arrest.
Meanwhile, the Arroyo has filed a motion to block the arrest, arguing the regional court has no jurisdiction over the case but should be under the Sandiganbayan.
The accused may be detained either in NBI detention center or Camp Crame. But with Arroyo's condition, a hospital arrest may be likely. Electoral sabotage is non-bailable.
The warrant came hours after Comelec filed the case.
In a press conference, de Lima said this compels Arroyo to stay in the country.
"Mrs. Arroyo is compelled to stay in the country, and face the charges of electoral sabotage filed against her, bringing us closer to uncovering the truth behind the controversies surrounding the 2007 elections," she said in a press conference.
"Rest assured that throughout the judicial process, the government will exercise fairness and impartiality, and will uphold every right that Mrs. Arroyo, as an accused, is entitled to under the constitution," she added.
Earlier in the day, Comelec has signed a resolution seeking to file electoral sabotage charges against former President, now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"COMELEC en banc has signed a resolution calling for the filing of a case for electoral sabotage against former president GMA," James Jimenez, Comelec spokesman said earlier in the day.
Jimenez said commissioners voted 5-2. Two other commissioners abstained from voting.
Former First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo is not included in the charge sheet due to insufficient evidence.
Responding to critics of the charge's "timing," Jimenez said Comelec's decision was not necessarily to coincide with Arroyo's plan to leave for Singapore.
"Sinusunod lang po namin yung tamang proseso," Jimenez added in a television interview.
Based on Republic Act No. 6646, electoral sabotage constitutes altering of votes during an election, tampering numbers on "large scale or in substantial numbers."
It is punishable by life imprisonment.
The Comelec vote came ahead of the Supreme Court's en banc session on the government's motion for reconsideration on an earlier issued temporary restraining order against the watchlist order on Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel.
This development might again prevent the ailing Arroyo from leaving the country.
She is now under the custody of the Southern Police District, according to Sr. Superintendent James Bucayo.
Police said Arroyo looked rested when the warrant of arrest was read to her.
"She's now under hospital arrest," added CIDG-National Capital Region chief Senior Superintendent Joel Coronel.
The warrant was served at around 6:30 P.M. in the presence of the former First Family, lawyers and former Cabinet members, Coronel added.
Arrest warrants were also served to Andal Sr. and former election officer Lintang Bedol.
Bucayo said Arroyo will be "booked" Saturday. Arroyo just woke up when they arrived at St. Lukes Medical Center in Taguig City. "She was expecting the warrant," he said.
The clerk of court of Pasay Regional Trial Court Branch 112 said presiding judge Jesus Mupas found probable cause that the ailing Arroyo, along with former Commission on Elections officials, may be liable for poll rigging.
Apart from Arroyo, an arrest warrant is also out against former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr.and former Comelec election supervisor Lintang Bedol.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Chief Superintendent Alan Purisima and the Taguig City Police chief Tomas Apolinario arrived at the St. Lukes Medical Center to serve the warrant of arrest.
Meanwhile, the Arroyo has filed a motion to block the arrest, arguing the regional court has no jurisdiction over the case but should be under the Sandiganbayan.
The accused may be detained either in NBI detention center or Camp Crame. But with Arroyo's condition, a hospital arrest may be likely. Electoral sabotage is non-bailable.
The warrant came hours after Comelec filed the case.
In a press conference, de Lima said this compels Arroyo to stay in the country.
"Mrs. Arroyo is compelled to stay in the country, and face the charges of electoral sabotage filed against her, bringing us closer to uncovering the truth behind the controversies surrounding the 2007 elections," she said in a press conference.
"Rest assured that throughout the judicial process, the government will exercise fairness and impartiality, and will uphold every right that Mrs. Arroyo, as an accused, is entitled to under the constitution," she added.
Earlier in the day, Comelec has signed a resolution seeking to file electoral sabotage charges against former President, now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"COMELEC en banc has signed a resolution calling for the filing of a case for electoral sabotage against former president GMA," James Jimenez, Comelec spokesman said earlier in the day.
Jimenez said commissioners voted 5-2. Two other commissioners abstained from voting.
Former First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo is not included in the charge sheet due to insufficient evidence.
Responding to critics of the charge's "timing," Jimenez said Comelec's decision was not necessarily to coincide with Arroyo's plan to leave for Singapore.
"Sinusunod lang po namin yung tamang proseso," Jimenez added in a television interview.
Based on Republic Act No. 6646, electoral sabotage constitutes altering of votes during an election, tampering numbers on "large scale or in substantial numbers."
It is punishable by life imprisonment.
The Comelec vote came ahead of the Supreme Court's en banc session on the government's motion for reconsideration on an earlier issued temporary restraining order against the watchlist order on Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel.
This development might again prevent the ailing Arroyo from leaving the country.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Arroyo asks SC to stop DOJ from preventing her travel
Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has asked the Supreme Court to stop the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Bureau of Immigration from preventing her from seeking medical treatment abroad.
In a 12-page urgent motion filed by lawyer Estelito Mendoza, Mrs. Arroyo asked the high court to order respondents Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and Immigration chief Ricardo David Jr. to let her leave the country.
The motion was filed after Immigration officials Tuesday night barred Mrs. Arroyo and her husband, Jose Miguel, from boarding a plane — reportedly bound for Hong Kong — even after
the Supreme Court ordered the Justice Department and the Immigration Bureau from enforcing a watch list order
The watch list order requires the Arroyos to ask for government permission before traveling abroad.
By preventing Mrs. Arroyo from leaving the country despite the Supreme Court order, De Lima and David "are disregarding the core value of separation of powers among the co-equal branches of the government and the principle of checks and balances which guarantee our basic freedoms."
"Wherefore petitioner GMA [Arroyo's initials] respectfully prays that this Honorable Court immediately implement the Temporary Restraining Order, dated 15 November 2011 issued in the above-captioned case and order the respondents, their agents, representatives and persons acting in their stead to immediately cease and desist from preventing petitioner GMA from leaving the country," part of the motion read. — KBK/VS, GMA News
In a 12-page urgent motion filed by lawyer Estelito Mendoza, Mrs. Arroyo asked the high court to order respondents Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and Immigration chief Ricardo David Jr. to let her leave the country.
The motion was filed after Immigration officials Tuesday night barred Mrs. Arroyo and her husband, Jose Miguel, from boarding a plane — reportedly bound for Hong Kong — even after
the Supreme Court ordered the Justice Department and the Immigration Bureau from enforcing a watch list order
The watch list order requires the Arroyos to ask for government permission before traveling abroad.
By preventing Mrs. Arroyo from leaving the country despite the Supreme Court order, De Lima and David "are disregarding the core value of separation of powers among the co-equal branches of the government and the principle of checks and balances which guarantee our basic freedoms."
"Wherefore petitioner GMA [Arroyo's initials] respectfully prays that this Honorable Court immediately implement the Temporary Restraining Order, dated 15 November 2011 issued in the above-captioned case and order the respondents, their agents, representatives and persons acting in their stead to immediately cease and desist from preventing petitioner GMA from leaving the country," part of the motion read. — KBK/VS, GMA News
Comelec OKs electoral sabotage raps vs. Arroyo
The Commission on Election has signed a resolution seeking to file electoral sabotage charges against former President, now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"COMELEC en banc has signed a resolution calling for the filing of a case for electoral sabotage against former president GMA," James Jimenez, Comelec spokesman said.
Jimenez said commissioners voted 5-2. Two other commissioners abstained from voting.
Reports say the case has been filed before the Pasay Regional Trial 112 court under Jesus Mupas.
Jimenez said apart from Arroyo, charges have also been filed against Former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan, former Comelec election supervisor Lintang Bedol, and former Comelec chair Benjamin Abalos.
Former First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo is not included in the charge sheet due to insufficient evidence.
Responding to critics of the charge's "timing," Jimenez said Comelec's decision was not necessarily to coincide with Arroyo's plan to leave for Singapore.
"Sinusunod lang po namin yung tamang proseso," Jimenez added in a television interview.
Based on Republic Act No. 6646, electoral sabotage constitutes altering of votes during an election, tampering numbers on "large scale or in substantial numbers."
It is non-bailable and punishable by life imprisonment.
The Comelec vote came ahead of the Supreme Court's en banc session on the government's motion for reconsideration on an earlier issued temporary restraining order against the watchlist order on Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel.
This development might again prevent the ailing Arroyo from leaving the country.
"COMELEC en banc has signed a resolution calling for the filing of a case for electoral sabotage against former president GMA," James Jimenez, Comelec spokesman said.
Jimenez said commissioners voted 5-2. Two other commissioners abstained from voting.
Reports say the case has been filed before the Pasay Regional Trial 112 court under Jesus Mupas.
Jimenez said apart from Arroyo, charges have also been filed against Former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan, former Comelec election supervisor Lintang Bedol, and former Comelec chair Benjamin Abalos.
Former First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo is not included in the charge sheet due to insufficient evidence.
Responding to critics of the charge's "timing," Jimenez said Comelec's decision was not necessarily to coincide with Arroyo's plan to leave for Singapore.
"Sinusunod lang po namin yung tamang proseso," Jimenez added in a television interview.
Based on Republic Act No. 6646, electoral sabotage constitutes altering of votes during an election, tampering numbers on "large scale or in substantial numbers."
It is non-bailable and punishable by life imprisonment.
The Comelec vote came ahead of the Supreme Court's en banc session on the government's motion for reconsideration on an earlier issued temporary restraining order against the watchlist order on Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel.
This development might again prevent the ailing Arroyo from leaving the country.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
One dead as bad loser bombs Philippine carnival
A man who lost a coin-tossing gambling game at a carnival in the Philippines hurled a grenade at other players, killing a teenager and injuring 22 people, according to police.
The suspect was furious because he believed another player at the gaming venue had cheated him, said local police chief Senior Inspector Jordaen Maribojo.
"He was searching for the man who he believed had cheated him. Apparently, the grenade thrower saw the man in the middle of the gambling area. When he saw him, he lobbed the grenade and fled," said Maribojo.
The explosion on Monday killed a 19-year-old man, while most of the 22 injured were also teenagers who had been watching or playing the game, according to Maribojo.
The incident occurred at a festival to celebrate 55 years since the foundation of Carmen, a rural and violence-plagued town on the strife-torn southern island of Mindanao, according to local police officals.
Maribojo said it was not known how the attacker, who fled and was still on the run, obtained a hand grenade.
But he noted that weapons and ammunition were relatively easy to get in Carmen, with Muslim rebels living on the outskirts of town and it being the scene of extortion bomb attacks in recent years by various armed groups
The suspect was furious because he believed another player at the gaming venue had cheated him, said local police chief Senior Inspector Jordaen Maribojo.
"He was searching for the man who he believed had cheated him. Apparently, the grenade thrower saw the man in the middle of the gambling area. When he saw him, he lobbed the grenade and fled," said Maribojo.
The explosion on Monday killed a 19-year-old man, while most of the 22 injured were also teenagers who had been watching or playing the game, according to Maribojo.
The incident occurred at a festival to celebrate 55 years since the foundation of Carmen, a rural and violence-plagued town on the strife-torn southern island of Mindanao, according to local police officals.
Maribojo said it was not known how the attacker, who fled and was still on the run, obtained a hand grenade.
But he noted that weapons and ammunition were relatively easy to get in Carmen, with Muslim rebels living on the outskirts of town and it being the scene of extortion bomb attacks in recent years by various armed groups
Lawyer's balls 'at stake' upon Arroyo departure
A lawyer vows he would have his balls cut if the Arroyos fail to return.
Amid speculations that former president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Arroyo and her husband won't return after seeking medical treatment abroad, their counsel Ferdinand Topacio is willing to put his balls at stake.
“Papatanggal ko yung isang itlog ko kapag hindi bumalik ang mga Arroyo. I am confident they will return,” said Topacio in an interview with ANC Wednesday, as quoted in a tweet by ANCALERTS.
After expressing his overwhelming confidence to the Arroyos, the hashtag #itlognitopacio has gained popularity and comments from Filipino netizens. It has become the top local trending topic in social networking site Twitter.
“Let GMA go as SC ordered. But pls guard Topacio's testes. National interest demands it. LOL,” Jim Paredes said on his Twitter account.
The singer-activist added, “I have heard of ppl giving an arm and a leg for a loved one. But a testicular offer for insurance is quite unique.”
Meanwhile, user Mam_Charo said, “If Topacio's willing to put his balls on line, ano'ng gusto nyong i-offer ni Elena Bautista Horn? #DedeNiElena? LOL,” referring to Arroyo’s spokesperson.
But in an interview with radio dzBB, Horn said she is willing to go behind bars, with her kids in tow, should the couple refuses to return to the Philippines.
Aside from betting his “ball,” Topacio revealed that the Arroyos will still attempt to leave the country after the Department of Justice prevented the couple to travel despite Supreme Court’s ruling.
“Hindi na kailangang maghintay at talagang agaran ang pangangailangan ni Arroyo,” the lawyer replied when asked why the former president is so in a rush to leave.
Arroyo’s legal counsel further appealed to those who oppose to respect the high court’s decision.
Amid speculations that former president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Arroyo and her husband won't return after seeking medical treatment abroad, their counsel Ferdinand Topacio is willing to put his balls at stake.
“Papatanggal ko yung isang itlog ko kapag hindi bumalik ang mga Arroyo. I am confident they will return,” said Topacio in an interview with ANC Wednesday, as quoted in a tweet by ANCALERTS.
After expressing his overwhelming confidence to the Arroyos, the hashtag #itlognitopacio has gained popularity and comments from Filipino netizens. It has become the top local trending topic in social networking site Twitter.
“Let GMA go as SC ordered. But pls guard Topacio's testes. National interest demands it. LOL,” Jim Paredes said on his Twitter account.
The singer-activist added, “I have heard of ppl giving an arm and a leg for a loved one. But a testicular offer for insurance is quite unique.”
Meanwhile, user Mam_Charo said, “If Topacio's willing to put his balls on line, ano'ng gusto nyong i-offer ni Elena Bautista Horn? #DedeNiElena? LOL,” referring to Arroyo’s spokesperson.
But in an interview with radio dzBB, Horn said she is willing to go behind bars, with her kids in tow, should the couple refuses to return to the Philippines.
Aside from betting his “ball,” Topacio revealed that the Arroyos will still attempt to leave the country after the Department of Justice prevented the couple to travel despite Supreme Court’s ruling.
“Hindi na kailangang maghintay at talagang agaran ang pangangailangan ni Arroyo,” the lawyer replied when asked why the former president is so in a rush to leave.
Arroyo’s legal counsel further appealed to those who oppose to respect the high court’s decision.
Ramona no longer in Turkey
MANILA, Philippines - Murder suspect Ma. Ramona “Mara” Bautista spent only hours in Turkey and her current location is unknown, a National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) official said yesterday.
In a text message to reporters, NBI Foreign Liaison Division (FLD) chief Claro de Castro Jr. said this was based on the latest communication they received yesterday from the Interpol in Ankara, Turkey.
“Ramona is not in Turkey. She arrived in Turkey in the morning of Nov. 5, left in the afternoon. It is not yet known where she went. We will verify,” De Castro said in Filipino.
He also confirmed that no warrant for Ramona’s arrest has been issued in the Philippines so she cannot be placed in the Red Notice List of the Interpol, which has issued a Blue Notice against Ramona.
A Red Notice means a suspect can be arrested by any Interpol member country, while a Blue Notice limits a member country to monitoring a suspect’s movements. There are 190 Interpol member countries worldwide.
Based on the information provided to the NBI by their counterparts in Turkey, Ramona arrived at Istanbul’s Ataturk International Airport at 10:34 a.m. on Nov. 5, De Castro said.
Ramona immediately left Turkey at 4:51 p.m. of the same day, said De Castro.
Immigration records in the Philippines show Ramona left the country at 8:40 p.m. on Nov. 4 aboard Cathay Pacific Flight bound for Hong Kong, then proceeded to Istanbul with a connecting Turkish Airlines flight.
Interpol Ankara also confirmed Ramona is a resident of Pinartepe, Naalesi, Istanbul, Turkey. She is married to a Turkish national.
Ramona still remains a holder of Philippine passport XX1106480.
On the other hand, in an interview over radio station dzRH yesterday morning, NBI Director Magtanggol Gatdula said they will take over the case if the Philippine National Police makes such a request. But right now, they are supporting the PNP, particularly the Parañaque police, in their ongoing investigation, he said.
“Our investigators are always there to support the police. There is a parallel investigation. We are also moving and gathering information which we give to the police,” he said.
When asked if he is satisfied with the way the probe is being handled by the police, Gatdula said it is just proper to first gather all possible suspects, then use the process of elimination to get the most feasible and viable theory on the murder of actor Ram Revilla (real name Ramgen Bautista), Ramona’s eldest brother, and the frustrated murder of Ramgen’s girlfriend, actress Janelle Manahan.
De Castro earlier admitted it would be difficult for them to have Ramona extradited if she is in Turkey or in other countries with which the Philippines has not extradition treaty.
“We can simply make a request. We can also invoke the principle of reciprocity,” he said.
Gatdula had sent last Nov. 8 a formal request to verify and confirm the immigration status of Ramona and if she entered Turkey. The one-page letter was coursed through the Philippine Center for Transnational Crime executive director Felizardo Serapio. who then sent it to the Interpol
In a text message to reporters, NBI Foreign Liaison Division (FLD) chief Claro de Castro Jr. said this was based on the latest communication they received yesterday from the Interpol in Ankara, Turkey.
“Ramona is not in Turkey. She arrived in Turkey in the morning of Nov. 5, left in the afternoon. It is not yet known where she went. We will verify,” De Castro said in Filipino.
He also confirmed that no warrant for Ramona’s arrest has been issued in the Philippines so she cannot be placed in the Red Notice List of the Interpol, which has issued a Blue Notice against Ramona.
A Red Notice means a suspect can be arrested by any Interpol member country, while a Blue Notice limits a member country to monitoring a suspect’s movements. There are 190 Interpol member countries worldwide.
Based on the information provided to the NBI by their counterparts in Turkey, Ramona arrived at Istanbul’s Ataturk International Airport at 10:34 a.m. on Nov. 5, De Castro said.
Ramona immediately left Turkey at 4:51 p.m. of the same day, said De Castro.
Immigration records in the Philippines show Ramona left the country at 8:40 p.m. on Nov. 4 aboard Cathay Pacific Flight bound for Hong Kong, then proceeded to Istanbul with a connecting Turkish Airlines flight.
Interpol Ankara also confirmed Ramona is a resident of Pinartepe, Naalesi, Istanbul, Turkey. She is married to a Turkish national.
Ramona still remains a holder of Philippine passport XX1106480.
On the other hand, in an interview over radio station dzRH yesterday morning, NBI Director Magtanggol Gatdula said they will take over the case if the Philippine National Police makes such a request. But right now, they are supporting the PNP, particularly the Parañaque police, in their ongoing investigation, he said.
“Our investigators are always there to support the police. There is a parallel investigation. We are also moving and gathering information which we give to the police,” he said.
When asked if he is satisfied with the way the probe is being handled by the police, Gatdula said it is just proper to first gather all possible suspects, then use the process of elimination to get the most feasible and viable theory on the murder of actor Ram Revilla (real name Ramgen Bautista), Ramona’s eldest brother, and the frustrated murder of Ramgen’s girlfriend, actress Janelle Manahan.
De Castro earlier admitted it would be difficult for them to have Ramona extradited if she is in Turkey or in other countries with which the Philippines has not extradition treaty.
“We can simply make a request. We can also invoke the principle of reciprocity,” he said.
Gatdula had sent last Nov. 8 a formal request to verify and confirm the immigration status of Ramona and if she entered Turkey. The one-page letter was coursed through the Philippine Center for Transnational Crime executive director Felizardo Serapio. who then sent it to the Interpol
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Ex-Pres Arroyo stopped from leaving Philippines
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — The Philippine government blocked former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and her husband from leaving the country on Tuesday and said it will appeal a Supreme Court order that allowed them to travel abroad for medical treatment despite corruption allegations.
Accompanied by her husband and son, Arroyo arrived at the Manila airport in an ambulance and was wheeled into a departure hall wearing a face mask and a neck brace.
Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the former first couple, being investigated for alleged corruption and electoral cheating, would be treated with dignity but "we will be firm in our decision not to allow them to leave the country."
"This is all high drama. They want the public to sympathize with them," he said.
The Arroyos were ushered into a VIP lounge while their lawyers, armed with the Supreme Court decision that overruled a travel ban imposed earlier by President Benigno Aquino III, tried to persuade immigration officials to allow them to board a flight to Singapore.
After about two hours, Arroyo lawyer Raul Lambino said the officials had prevented the former president from leaving.
"They weren't able to board the airplane," he said, accusing the government of inflicting "inhumane, cruel punishment" on his client.
Arroyo and her husband later left the airport in the ambulance and headed to a hospital where she was to be checked for stress, said an ally, Rep. Edcel Lagman.
"They are very mean. They are very cruel," husband Jose Miguel Arroyo said of the government. "I feel sad. I feel mad. How can they refuse to follow the Supreme Court order? That is tyranny."
The government's refusal to comply with the order put the Aquino administration on a collision course not only with the Arroyos and their allies but also with the highest court.
Aquino last week refused to let Arroyo travel, saying she might never return because of the corruption investigation and the formal charges he expected would be filed against her by the end of the year.
But the justices voted 8-5 on Tuesday to issue a temporary restraining order allowing Arroyo to seek treatment for a bone ailment, court spokesman Midas Marquez said.
"They are free to exercise their constitutional rights," Marquez said, adding that the government could be cited for contempt.
He said the Arroyos complied with court conditions for travel by posting a bond of 2 million pesos ($46,000) and appointing legal representatives to receive any court summonses. They were also ordered to report to Philippine embassies or consulates in countries they visit.
Aquino has promised to uproot corruption by prosecuting former officials suspected of high-level graft.
Arroyo, now a member of Congress, is under investigation by the Justice Department on allegations of plunder and election sabotage during her 2001-2010 presidency. She has denied any wrongdoing.
The government cited her possible flight from justice because the countries she said she wanted to visit have no extradition treaties with the Philippines. They include Austria, Spain, Singapore and Germany.
Arroyo, 64, has undergone three spinal surgeries. She is also suffering from a parathyroid ailment, her doctors say.
Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said the government will appeal the Supreme Court's decision. She said the restraining order cannot be implemented once a motion for reconsideration has been filed, but Marquez denied this.
Accompanied by her husband and son, Arroyo arrived at the Manila airport in an ambulance and was wheeled into a departure hall wearing a face mask and a neck brace.
Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the former first couple, being investigated for alleged corruption and electoral cheating, would be treated with dignity but "we will be firm in our decision not to allow them to leave the country."
"This is all high drama. They want the public to sympathize with them," he said.
The Arroyos were ushered into a VIP lounge while their lawyers, armed with the Supreme Court decision that overruled a travel ban imposed earlier by President Benigno Aquino III, tried to persuade immigration officials to allow them to board a flight to Singapore.
After about two hours, Arroyo lawyer Raul Lambino said the officials had prevented the former president from leaving.
"They weren't able to board the airplane," he said, accusing the government of inflicting "inhumane, cruel punishment" on his client.
Arroyo and her husband later left the airport in the ambulance and headed to a hospital where she was to be checked for stress, said an ally, Rep. Edcel Lagman.
"They are very mean. They are very cruel," husband Jose Miguel Arroyo said of the government. "I feel sad. I feel mad. How can they refuse to follow the Supreme Court order? That is tyranny."
The government's refusal to comply with the order put the Aquino administration on a collision course not only with the Arroyos and their allies but also with the highest court.
Aquino last week refused to let Arroyo travel, saying she might never return because of the corruption investigation and the formal charges he expected would be filed against her by the end of the year.
But the justices voted 8-5 on Tuesday to issue a temporary restraining order allowing Arroyo to seek treatment for a bone ailment, court spokesman Midas Marquez said.
"They are free to exercise their constitutional rights," Marquez said, adding that the government could be cited for contempt.
He said the Arroyos complied with court conditions for travel by posting a bond of 2 million pesos ($46,000) and appointing legal representatives to receive any court summonses. They were also ordered to report to Philippine embassies or consulates in countries they visit.
Aquino has promised to uproot corruption by prosecuting former officials suspected of high-level graft.
Arroyo, now a member of Congress, is under investigation by the Justice Department on allegations of plunder and election sabotage during her 2001-2010 presidency. She has denied any wrongdoing.
The government cited her possible flight from justice because the countries she said she wanted to visit have no extradition treaties with the Philippines. They include Austria, Spain, Singapore and Germany.
Arroyo, 64, has undergone three spinal surgeries. She is also suffering from a parathyroid ailment, her doctors say.
Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said the government will appeal the Supreme Court's decision. She said the restraining order cannot be implemented once a motion for reconsideration has been filed, but Marquez denied this.
North Korea 'opens luxury goods store'
North Korea has opened a department store in its capital offering luxury goods for the ruling elite to try to bolster loyalty before a second dynastic succession, officials and reports said Monday.
The store named Potongkang opened in February, selling imported high-end brands such as Chanel and Giorgio Armani as well as medicine, furniture and foods, a South Korean government official said on condition of anonymity.
The store forms part of the isolated North's project to give its showpiece capital a facelift, even though much of the country suffers severe food shortages. UN agencies say a quarter of the population urgently needs food aid.
In Paris, Chanel said in a statement that it was not engaged in "any commercial relationship" with North Korea and that "this store is not at all part of our agreed distributors."
The fashion house said it will "carry out an investigation to verify this information and to try and understand what could have happened".
The capital's new look is intended for completion before the 100th anniversary in April of the birth of founding president Kim Il-Sung. The regime has set the goal of becoming a "great, powerful and prosperous nation" by then.
Leader Kim Jong-Il engages in "gift politics" by showering top aides and the elite with luxury goods to win loyalty to his ruling family, Seoul analysts say.
Kim has speeded up plans for an eventual second dynastic succession since he suffered a stroke in August 2008. His youngest son was given senior party posts in September last year, confirming his status as leader-in-waiting.
South Korean newspapers said Kim had ordered his staff to improve life for privileged residents in the capital by prioritising the supply of drinking water, heating and power.
When the communist North received 50,000 tons of food assistance from Russia in August, Kim ordered that 40,000 tons be allotted to Pyongyang citizens, Dong-A Ilbo newspaper said.
High-rise apartment buildings, theatres and parks have been built in Pyongyang and old street lights and neon signs have been replaced, it said.
In October, the North said it had built a public service complex featuring equipment for bathing, haircuts and beauty treatment and an outdoor ice rink.
College students and soldiers have been drafted in to help with construction, which was dogged by lack of funds and building materials.
In contrast to the capital's amenities, residents of other regions have electric power only for one to four hours daily, Dong-A said.
The store named Potongkang opened in February, selling imported high-end brands such as Chanel and Giorgio Armani as well as medicine, furniture and foods, a South Korean government official said on condition of anonymity.
The store forms part of the isolated North's project to give its showpiece capital a facelift, even though much of the country suffers severe food shortages. UN agencies say a quarter of the population urgently needs food aid.
In Paris, Chanel said in a statement that it was not engaged in "any commercial relationship" with North Korea and that "this store is not at all part of our agreed distributors."
The fashion house said it will "carry out an investigation to verify this information and to try and understand what could have happened".
The capital's new look is intended for completion before the 100th anniversary in April of the birth of founding president Kim Il-Sung. The regime has set the goal of becoming a "great, powerful and prosperous nation" by then.
Leader Kim Jong-Il engages in "gift politics" by showering top aides and the elite with luxury goods to win loyalty to his ruling family, Seoul analysts say.
Kim has speeded up plans for an eventual second dynastic succession since he suffered a stroke in August 2008. His youngest son was given senior party posts in September last year, confirming his status as leader-in-waiting.
South Korean newspapers said Kim had ordered his staff to improve life for privileged residents in the capital by prioritising the supply of drinking water, heating and power.
When the communist North received 50,000 tons of food assistance from Russia in August, Kim ordered that 40,000 tons be allotted to Pyongyang citizens, Dong-A Ilbo newspaper said.
High-rise apartment buildings, theatres and parks have been built in Pyongyang and old street lights and neon signs have been replaced, it said.
In October, the North said it had built a public service complex featuring equipment for bathing, haircuts and beauty treatment and an outdoor ice rink.
College students and soldiers have been drafted in to help with construction, which was dogged by lack of funds and building materials.
In contrast to the capital's amenities, residents of other regions have electric power only for one to four hours daily, Dong-A said.
Bong takes custody of half-sister
MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. took custody of his half-sister, Ma.Ramona Bautista, from the Las Piñas police two hours after the Oct. 29 murder of actor Ram Revilla (Ramgen Jose Bautista in real life), a police report said yesterday.
Police Chief Inspector Eduardo Andrade Bajado of the Las Piñas City police investigation and detective management division said the senator picked up Ramona from the police station for a medical check-up at the Parañaque Hospital.
Police sources said the senator arrived at the Las Piñas police station with a television crew.
The senator earlier called for a reinvestigation of the case, saying it must be ensured that probers talk to the right witnesses and present the right evidence.
He said it is a serious accusation that a brother and sister are behind the murder of their own brother.
Parañaque police stands by its findings
The Parañaque City police, however, said it is standing firm on its findings that Ramgen’s two younger siblings may be involved in the actor’s killing.
“We were very careful and thorough during the investigation. We have been very objective,” said city police chief Senior Superintendent Billy Beltran.
Beltran added that investigators did not expect that witnesses will come out to implicate Ramona and Ramon Joseph.
The murder charge against Ramona, 20, and Ramon Joseph, 18, were filed before the city prosecutor’s office on Tuesday.
Also charged were gunmen Michael Altea, Roy Francisco Tolisora, Glaiza Vista, Norwin de la Cruz, and a certain Bryan. The five are accused of helping the two younger siblings plan and execute the crime.
The seven suspects were also charged with frustrated murder for hurting Ramgen’s girlfriend Janelle Manahan.
Ramon Joseph, Altea and Tolisora are now under police custody, while the four remain at large.
Beltran said they can only arrest the four once the court issues an arrest warrant.
Ramona claimed her brother Ramgen was killed by a gunman wearing a Halloween mask and that she was kidnapped by his attacker and left at a mall along the Zapote-Alabang road in Las Piñas.
However, police investigators found out that the kidnapping was a hoax and was part of a cover up.
The decision on whether to elevate to the court the murder case filed by policemen against the suspects “may be out next week,” city prosecutor Amerhassan Paudac said.
“This is an inquest case, so it will not take long. It may be out next week,” Paudac said.
Ramgen buried
Ramgen was buried yesterday at the Revilla Mausoleum at the Angelus Eternal Garden in Toclong, Imus after a Mass held at around 3 p.m.
Breaking her silence, Ramgen’s mother, Genelyn Magsaysay, expressed her disappointment with the police investigation, which linked two of her children, Ramon Joseph Bautista and Ramona Bautista, to the murder.
Ramon Joseph, who was arrested on Monday, was tagged as the mastermind of the crime.
Actor Philip Salvador, Bacoor Mayor Strike Revilla and Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado-Revilla and other Cavite officials attended Ramgen's funeral.
Police Chief Inspector Eduardo Andrade Bajado of the Las Piñas City police investigation and detective management division said the senator picked up Ramona from the police station for a medical check-up at the Parañaque Hospital.
Police sources said the senator arrived at the Las Piñas police station with a television crew.
The senator earlier called for a reinvestigation of the case, saying it must be ensured that probers talk to the right witnesses and present the right evidence.
He said it is a serious accusation that a brother and sister are behind the murder of their own brother.
Parañaque police stands by its findings
The Parañaque City police, however, said it is standing firm on its findings that Ramgen’s two younger siblings may be involved in the actor’s killing.
“We were very careful and thorough during the investigation. We have been very objective,” said city police chief Senior Superintendent Billy Beltran.
Beltran added that investigators did not expect that witnesses will come out to implicate Ramona and Ramon Joseph.
The murder charge against Ramona, 20, and Ramon Joseph, 18, were filed before the city prosecutor’s office on Tuesday.
Also charged were gunmen Michael Altea, Roy Francisco Tolisora, Glaiza Vista, Norwin de la Cruz, and a certain Bryan. The five are accused of helping the two younger siblings plan and execute the crime.
The seven suspects were also charged with frustrated murder for hurting Ramgen’s girlfriend Janelle Manahan.
Ramon Joseph, Altea and Tolisora are now under police custody, while the four remain at large.
Beltran said they can only arrest the four once the court issues an arrest warrant.
Ramona claimed her brother Ramgen was killed by a gunman wearing a Halloween mask and that she was kidnapped by his attacker and left at a mall along the Zapote-Alabang road in Las Piñas.
However, police investigators found out that the kidnapping was a hoax and was part of a cover up.
The decision on whether to elevate to the court the murder case filed by policemen against the suspects “may be out next week,” city prosecutor Amerhassan Paudac said.
“This is an inquest case, so it will not take long. It may be out next week,” Paudac said.
Ramgen buried
Ramgen was buried yesterday at the Revilla Mausoleum at the Angelus Eternal Garden in Toclong, Imus after a Mass held at around 3 p.m.
Breaking her silence, Ramgen’s mother, Genelyn Magsaysay, expressed her disappointment with the police investigation, which linked two of her children, Ramon Joseph Bautista and Ramona Bautista, to the murder.
Ramon Joseph, who was arrested on Monday, was tagged as the mastermind of the crime.
Actor Philip Salvador, Bacoor Mayor Strike Revilla and Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado-Revilla and other Cavite officials attended Ramgen's funeral.
2 more suspects in Ramgen killing in police custody
Two more people linked to the brutal killing of Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr.'s half-brother Ramgen Bautista were placed under police custody early Monday.
Parañaque City police chief Senior Superintendent Billy Beltran identified the two as Glaiza Vista and Norwin dela Cruz, radio dzBB's Sam Nielsen reported.
The report quoted Beltran as saying the two had been placed in a safe house before 7 a.m. Monday, but would not give other details.
Beltran also said the police are now coordinating with the city prosecutor's office to afford "due process" for the two, the report added.
He said the two may face murder and frustrated murder charges for the fatal shooting and stabbing of Ramgen, 23, last October 28 in his Parañaque residence. Another victim, Ramgen's girlfriend Janelle Manahan, survived the attack.
Still, Beltran said there is no warrant for their arrest at this time as they had not yet been formally charged.
The dzBB report said Beltran received word at 4 a.m. Monday that Vista and Dela Cruz were going to "surrender."
Vista and Dela Cruz allegedly had contacts with the hired killers of Bautista.
Also implicated in the are Ramgen's younger siblings — Ramona Bautista, 22, who fled the country days after the incident; and Ramon Joseph "RJ" Bautista, 18, who is already in police custody.
Their mother, Genelyn Magsaysay, has denied that her children would resort to killing each other to settle their differences.
Apart from RJ, also currently detained are two other suspects in the crime, John Michael Nartea and Roy Francis Tolisora, who allegedly carried out the attack upon supposed orders from RJ and Ramona.
Parañaque City police chief Senior Superintendent Billy Beltran identified the two as Glaiza Vista and Norwin dela Cruz, radio dzBB's Sam Nielsen reported.
The report quoted Beltran as saying the two had been placed in a safe house before 7 a.m. Monday, but would not give other details.
Beltran also said the police are now coordinating with the city prosecutor's office to afford "due process" for the two, the report added.
He said the two may face murder and frustrated murder charges for the fatal shooting and stabbing of Ramgen, 23, last October 28 in his Parañaque residence. Another victim, Ramgen's girlfriend Janelle Manahan, survived the attack.
Still, Beltran said there is no warrant for their arrest at this time as they had not yet been formally charged.
The dzBB report said Beltran received word at 4 a.m. Monday that Vista and Dela Cruz were going to "surrender."
Vista and Dela Cruz allegedly had contacts with the hired killers of Bautista.
Also implicated in the are Ramgen's younger siblings — Ramona Bautista, 22, who fled the country days after the incident; and Ramon Joseph "RJ" Bautista, 18, who is already in police custody.
Their mother, Genelyn Magsaysay, has denied that her children would resort to killing each other to settle their differences.
Apart from RJ, also currently detained are two other suspects in the crime, John Michael Nartea and Roy Francis Tolisora, who allegedly carried out the attack upon supposed orders from RJ and Ramona.
Senators support SC decision on Arroyos
Senators said they supported the Supreme Court decision that would allow former president now Pampanga representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and husband Juan Miguel “Mike” Arroyo to travel abroad for medical treatment.
The Supreme Court, in an 8-5 decision, voted in favor of issuing a temporary restraining order against the watchlist order of the Department of Justice against the Arroyo couple.
“The decision of the Supreme Court is fair and reasonable. While I believe that PGMA has to answer for a lot of things, she should be made to do so under the proper constitutional processes,” Senator Francis Escudero said.
Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago also commended the decision.
Earlier, the DOJ, through a watchlist order, banned the Arroyos from leaving the country to protect the national interest.
Santiago, however, pointed out that the justice department has no legal basis to issue a hold departure on its own and that national interest is not an exception to rule out an individual’s fundamental right to travel.
Senator Panfilo Lacson also concurred that the justice department mishandled the issuance of the watchlist order which was wrongly implemented as a hold departure order.
He added that the DOJ was testing its powers and failed to conduct a preliminary investigation, file the information in court and wait for the warrant of arrest to be issued.
To prevent the Arroyos from leaving and from facing the accusations against them, Escudero said that appropriate charges must be filed in court.
“This is the proper legal action which does not circumvent constitutional and basic rights,” he said.
The Supreme Court, in an 8-5 decision, voted in favor of issuing a temporary restraining order against the watchlist order of the Department of Justice against the Arroyo couple.
“The decision of the Supreme Court is fair and reasonable. While I believe that PGMA has to answer for a lot of things, she should be made to do so under the proper constitutional processes,” Senator Francis Escudero said.
Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago also commended the decision.
Earlier, the DOJ, through a watchlist order, banned the Arroyos from leaving the country to protect the national interest.
Santiago, however, pointed out that the justice department has no legal basis to issue a hold departure on its own and that national interest is not an exception to rule out an individual’s fundamental right to travel.
Senator Panfilo Lacson also concurred that the justice department mishandled the issuance of the watchlist order which was wrongly implemented as a hold departure order.
He added that the DOJ was testing its powers and failed to conduct a preliminary investigation, file the information in court and wait for the warrant of arrest to be issued.
To prevent the Arroyos from leaving and from facing the accusations against them, Escudero said that appropriate charges must be filed in court.
“This is the proper legal action which does not circumvent constitutional and basic rights,” he said.
Arroyos not allowed to leave for Singapore after getting TRO
Immigration officials barred the Arroyos from leaving the country on Tuesday night. This was after the couple got a temporary restraining order against an immigration watchlist order, disallowing them from seeking medical help outside of the country.
Television footage from ABS-CBN showed the former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo arriving at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1, expecting past 8:00 pm, just minutes before their reportedly booked 8:50 Dragon Air flight.
Lawyers of the Arroyos said in a radio report that the immigration officials followed orders issued by Department of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima. They said that barring the Arroyos from leaving violated their constitutional right.
"This is worse than Martial Law," one of the lawyers told media, as the Arroyos were exiting the airport.
The former First Gentleman who admitted that Pampanga Representative Arroyo was disappointed said the decision was very cruel. He also went on to call the justice department as a "Department of Injustice."
The Pampanga Representative, wearing an orthopedic medical brace and a face mask, arrived via an ambulance from the St. Luke's Medical Center-Taguig and was wheeled to the airport.
After checking-in, Arroyo will be allowed to use the airport's presidential lounge as a privilege being a former president, the ABS-CBN report added.
Also seen at the airport were Arroyo's eldest son, Mikey, and her spokesman Elena Bautista-Horn.
It was not immediately clear whether the couple will be able to fly Tuesday night, amid reports that Department of Justice Leila de Lima ordered Bureau of Immigration officials of "status quo" over another watchlist order.
SC Oks TRO
Earlier in the day, the couple have gotten permission to leave PH as the Supreme Court issued a TRO against the DoJ's watchlist order.
As soon as the couple complies with the conditions of the TRO, they may leave the country, says Supreme Court spokesman Midas Marquez in a televised press conference.
The Arroyos have been seeking permission to seek medical treatment abroad over the former president's bone illness.
Marquez said as part of the TRO on DoJ's Circular 41, the couple must meet the following conditions: be able to appoint legal representatives who will receive legal documents while they are abroad; be able to pay a cash bond of P2 million; and they must call or personally report to PH embassies once they arrive in their countries of destination.
"Once they are able to comply with these conditions, they can leave already," said Marquez.
Several news reports showed an Arroyo staff bring the bond to Supreme Court.
Those who voted in favor of the TRO are the following: Chief Justice Renato Corona, Justices Presbitero Velasco Jr., Arturo Brion, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin, Roberto Abad, Martin Villarama, and Jose Perez, said Marquez.
Senior Justice Antonio Carpio, Assoc. Justices Maria Lourdes Sereno, Bienvenido Reyes, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, & Jose Mendoza meanwhile opposed the Arroyo couple's plea to lift the TRO.
Two other justice were not present, Marquez added.
Marquez said judges in favor of the TRO saw that the Arroyos "were able to show they were entitled [to their right], or their inclusion in the order would probably work as injustice to them."
Marquez said the TRO may still be lifted anytime and is just "provisional remedy," and does not mean the couple has been acquitted of poll fraud accusations that led DoJ to put them into the watchlist.
Marquez said oral arguments on the case is scheduled on November 22.
Malacanang not happy
Meanwhile, Malacanang appears not too happy with the decision.
“Certainly this is not something we’re hoping for,” Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said.
He noted a motion for reconsideration to lift the TRO will be filed.
"We are prepared to defend our position in the oral arguments before the Supreme Court," he said.
But should Arroyo decide not to come back, she won’t have to undergo a court trial over charges against her.
“If she leaves abroad and do not go back, she can’t be tried because she has not been arraigned yet,” Lacierda noted.
President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III earlier offered to pay Arroyo’s medical bill and even fly in doctors so she would not have to leave the country.
Television footage from ABS-CBN showed the former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo arriving at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1, expecting past 8:00 pm, just minutes before their reportedly booked 8:50 Dragon Air flight.
Lawyers of the Arroyos said in a radio report that the immigration officials followed orders issued by Department of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima. They said that barring the Arroyos from leaving violated their constitutional right.
"This is worse than Martial Law," one of the lawyers told media, as the Arroyos were exiting the airport.
The former First Gentleman who admitted that Pampanga Representative Arroyo was disappointed said the decision was very cruel. He also went on to call the justice department as a "Department of Injustice."
The Pampanga Representative, wearing an orthopedic medical brace and a face mask, arrived via an ambulance from the St. Luke's Medical Center-Taguig and was wheeled to the airport.
After checking-in, Arroyo will be allowed to use the airport's presidential lounge as a privilege being a former president, the ABS-CBN report added.
Also seen at the airport were Arroyo's eldest son, Mikey, and her spokesman Elena Bautista-Horn.
It was not immediately clear whether the couple will be able to fly Tuesday night, amid reports that Department of Justice Leila de Lima ordered Bureau of Immigration officials of "status quo" over another watchlist order.
SC Oks TRO
Earlier in the day, the couple have gotten permission to leave PH as the Supreme Court issued a TRO against the DoJ's watchlist order.
As soon as the couple complies with the conditions of the TRO, they may leave the country, says Supreme Court spokesman Midas Marquez in a televised press conference.
The Arroyos have been seeking permission to seek medical treatment abroad over the former president's bone illness.
Marquez said as part of the TRO on DoJ's Circular 41, the couple must meet the following conditions: be able to appoint legal representatives who will receive legal documents while they are abroad; be able to pay a cash bond of P2 million; and they must call or personally report to PH embassies once they arrive in their countries of destination.
"Once they are able to comply with these conditions, they can leave already," said Marquez.
Several news reports showed an Arroyo staff bring the bond to Supreme Court.
Those who voted in favor of the TRO are the following: Chief Justice Renato Corona, Justices Presbitero Velasco Jr., Arturo Brion, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin, Roberto Abad, Martin Villarama, and Jose Perez, said Marquez.
Senior Justice Antonio Carpio, Assoc. Justices Maria Lourdes Sereno, Bienvenido Reyes, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, & Jose Mendoza meanwhile opposed the Arroyo couple's plea to lift the TRO.
Two other justice were not present, Marquez added.
Marquez said judges in favor of the TRO saw that the Arroyos "were able to show they were entitled [to their right], or their inclusion in the order would probably work as injustice to them."
Marquez said the TRO may still be lifted anytime and is just "provisional remedy," and does not mean the couple has been acquitted of poll fraud accusations that led DoJ to put them into the watchlist.
Marquez said oral arguments on the case is scheduled on November 22.
Malacanang not happy
Meanwhile, Malacanang appears not too happy with the decision.
“Certainly this is not something we’re hoping for,” Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said.
He noted a motion for reconsideration to lift the TRO will be filed.
"We are prepared to defend our position in the oral arguments before the Supreme Court," he said.
But should Arroyo decide not to come back, she won’t have to undergo a court trial over charges against her.
“If she leaves abroad and do not go back, she can’t be tried because she has not been arraigned yet,” Lacierda noted.
President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III earlier offered to pay Arroyo’s medical bill and even fly in doctors so she would not have to leave the country.
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