The Sandiganbayan Third Division has acquitted former Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista of graft charges related to a multi-million peso solar energy project at city hall.
Case Dismissal and Key Argument
In a decision dated December 20, 2025, the anti-graft court threw out the case filed under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The charges stemmed from the allegedly anomalous P25.34 million solar power project at the Quezon City Hall complex back in 2019.
The defense team for the actor-politician successfully argued a critical technical point. They contended that Bautista was no longer the mayor when the disputed funds were released. This timing proved pivotal to the court's decision to dismiss the charges against him.
Conviction of Former City Administrator
While Bautista was cleared, the legal proceedings did not end without a conviction. His former city administrator was found guilty in connection with the same project. The court sentenced the former official to a prison term of up to eight years.
This outcome highlights a split decision from the Sandiganbayan, holding a subordinate accountable while absolving the former mayor based on the timeline of events.
Implications and Aftermath
The dismissal closes a significant legal chapter for Herbert Bautista, who served as mayor of the country's most populous city. The case centered on procurement and implementation issues during his administration.
The ruling underscores the importance of direct involvement and timing in graft cases. It also demonstrates the judiciary's role in examining the specific details of each defendant's alleged participation in corrupt practices.
