Sandigan affirms Espino’s suspension

MANILA, Philippines - The Sandiganbayan has affirmed the suspension order it imposed on Rep. Amado Espino Jr. for a graft case filed against him when he was governor of Pangasinan.

In a resolution dated Nov. 29, the anti-graft court dismissed Espino’s motion to nullify the 90-day preventive suspension it issued on Sept. 7.

The ruling, penned by Associate Justice Rodolfo Ponferrada, directed Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez to implement the order and to inform the court of the actual date of the suspension and the expiry of the 90-day period.

Espino, who represents the fifth district of Pangasinan, said he would respect the judicial process and abide by the decision of the House.

His lawyers said they have yet to receive a copy of the Sandiganbayan decision.

The case against Espino stemmed from his alleged issuance of permits allowing black sand mining operation in the Lingayen Gulf in 2011.

The ombudsman said the permits were issued despite the lack of clearance from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau and Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board, and business permit from the municipality of Lingayen.

The court dismissed Espino’s argument that his suspension is unconstitutional as Congress has the power to discipline and suspend its members.

The Sandiganbayan said the suspension order is not a form of penalty or disciplinary action against Espino, but an implementation of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

It said the order did not violate Congress’ disciplinary power as provided under the Constitution.

On Espino’s argument that the case against him is politically motivated, the court said this is best proven during the trial.