MANILA, Philippines – Senate President Franklin Drilon on Wednesday said detained Sens. Jinggoy Estrada and Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. can still run in the 2016 national elections.
Drilon said that according to the Constitution, the two detained senators are still allowed to run in the upcoming polls until they are declared guilty by the court.
“Pwede po, dahilan sa hindi pa naman sila disqualified, hindi pa sila convicted. They are presumed innocent hanggang po magkaroon ng judgment sa husgado. Yaan po ay nasa ating Saligang Batas,” Drilon said in a radio interview.
The two senators are currently detained at the Philippine National Custodial Center in Camp Crame for plunder charges related to the pork barrel scam. They are hoping to be released from detention and be allowed to post bail after Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile was allowed to post bail.
Last Thursday, Revilla revealed his initial plan to run for president. He already expressed intention to run last May. However, due to his current case, he said he is now more focused on clearing his name.
Justice Secretary Leila De Lima also mentioned that Revilla may be allowed to run last June. However, she said the senator must consider his reputation which may affect national interest.
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