Fiscals want JV suspended while on trial

MANILA, Philippines – Government lawyers are asking the Sandiganbayan to place Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito under suspension while undergoing trial for graft.

Ejercito is facing graft and technical malversation of public funds charges before the Sandiganbayan fifth and sixth divisions.

The charges stem from Ejercito’s role in the alleged misuse of San Juan’s calamity funds when he was mayor of the locality in 2008.

Some P2.1 million in government money meant for disaster preparedness and response was allegedly spent to buy three model K2 cal. 5.56 mm submachine guns and 17 Daewoo model K1 cal. 5.56 mm submachine guns. 

In a motion, Ombudsman prosecutors said the anti-graft court should impose a 90-day preventive suspension against Ejercito as mandated by law.

They said the preventive suspension of incumbent public officials charged before the Sandiganbayan is mandatory under Section 13 of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

The Office of the Ombudsman said some of Ejercito’s co-accused who are still holding positions in government should also be suspended while on trial.