Court junks Palparan’s motion to leave prison

MALOLOS, Philippines – A court here has denied the  motion filed by  retired Army Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan to leave his detention cell so he can transfer his voter’s registration and have his biometrics taken.

Palparan, who has announced his intention to run for senator in next year’s elections, said he wants to transfer his voter’s registration from Pasig to Taguig.

Palparan is detained at a military facility in Taguig  in connection with the kidnapping with serious illegal detention case filed against him before the Malolos Regional Trial Court for the disappearance of University of the Philippines students Karen Empeño and Sherlyn Cadapan.

Edre Olalia of the National Union of People’s Lawyers and member of the prosecution panel  welcomed the decision of RTC Branch 15, saying  Palparan’s motion is against court proceedings.

Olalia said Palparan could have his biometrics taken in prison and file his certificate of candidacy through a representative.

Narzal Mallares, Palparan’s defense counsel, had expressed optimism their motion would be granted, saying the former general has not been convicted.

It is not yet clear if Palparan will run as an independent or a political party will include him in its senatorial ticket.