Sandigan: Remon Revilla Jr. must present own evidence

MANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan yesterday denied former senator Ramon Revilla Jr.’s motion seeking leave to file a demurrer to evidence in the plunder case against him in connection with the alleged misuse of his pork barrel fund.

The anti-graft court also denied similar motions filed by Revilla’s former aide Richard Cambe and alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles, Revilla’s co-accused.

“The court is of the view that there is a need for the accused to present evidence. Therefore, the motions for leave are hereby denied,” First Division chairman Associate Justice Efren de la Cruz said.

Under the Rules of Court, an accused may first seek the permission of the court before filing a demurrer so as not to lose his or her chance to present counter-evidence if the demurrer gets denied.

De la Cruz clarified that Revilla, Cambe and Napoles may still file their respective demurrers but risk losing the chance to present their counter-evidence.

The court said the accused may file their demurrer within 10 days from yesterday. If they do not file a demurrer, the presentation of their counter-evidence will proceed on Jan. 25, 2018, the court said.