Senator Francis Joseph “Chiz” Escudero and businessman Maynard Ngu have been temporarily barred from leaving the Philippines. The anti-graft court Sandiganbayan granted a request from the Office of the Ombudsman for a precautionary hold departure order (PHDO) against both individuals.
Court Action and Legal Basis
The Sandiganbayan 6th Division, led by Chairperson Associate Justice Sarah Jane Fernandez, granted the request on Monday, April 27. The PHDO request had been raffled to the division on the preceding Saturday, followed by an immediate hearing on Monday.
A PHDO is a legal mechanism that restricts the travel of any person who is the subject of an ongoing complaint. This measure ensures that individuals remain within the jurisdiction of the court during legal proceedings.
Corruption Allegations and Testimony
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla stated on Saturday, April 25, that the travel ban was sought because Escudero is facing complaints for bribery, graft, and plunder.
The senator’s involvement stems from a flood control scandal. Testimony from state witness Roberto Bernardo, a former undersecretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways, alleges that Escudero received a P160-million kickback.
Bernardo further claimed that he personally delivered the money to Maynard Ngu, a friend and campaign donor of the senator, for Escudero’s benefit.
Potential Next Steps
The legal process may now move toward further hearings as the Sandiganbayan evaluates the complaints filed by the Ombudsman. The PHDO will remain in effect until the court determines the status of the criminal charges.
The defense for Senator Escudero and Maynard Ngu may seek to challenge the travel restrictions or provide counter-evidence to the claims made by the state witness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is currently barred from leaving the Philippines?
Senator Francis Joseph “Chiz” Escudero and businessman Maynard Ngu are temporarily barred from leaving the country.
What specific charges are associated with the travel ban?
The Office of the Ombudsman requested the ban because Senator Escudero is facing complaints related to plunder, graft, and bribery.
What was the nature of the allegation made by Roberto Bernardo?
Former DPWH undersecretary Roberto Bernardo testified that Escudero allegedly received a P160-million kickback, which Bernardo claims he personally delivered to Maynard Ngu for the senator’s benefit.
How do you think the use of campaign donors as intermediaries affects the transparency of political funding?
