Manila Court Issues Precautionary Hold Departure Order in Plunder Case
In a significant legal development, the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 52 has formally instructed the Bureau of Immigration to prohibit the departure from the Philippines of several high-profile respondents involved in a plunder case related to anomalous flood control projects. The court order, dated February 10 of the current year, was officially disseminated by the Department of Justice, mandating that these individuals be barred from exiting the country.
Respondents Named in the Court Directive
The individuals specifically identified in the precautionary hold departure order include Senator Jinggoy Estrada, former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan, former Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, as well as Gerard Opulencia and Henry Alcantara. According to the court's ruling, these respondents are to be included in the Bureau of Immigration's Hold Departure List, effectively restricting their international travel.
Legal Basis for the Travel Ban
Department of Justice Spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez clarified that the issuance of the precautionary hold departure order was based on the court's determination of probable cause. The court found sufficient reason to believe that the respondents might attempt to flee the country to evade potential arrest. This legal measure is a preventive step to ensure their availability for ongoing judicial proceedings.
The order follows a preliminary investigation conducted just yesterday, focusing on the plunder charges filed against the respondents. During this investigation, former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan appeared and submitted counter-affidavits in response to the allegations brought forth by the National Bureau of Investigation – Department of Justice Public Works and Bid Rigging Task Force.
Bureau of Immigration Confirms Implementation
In response to the court's directive, the Bureau of Immigration has confirmed receipt and immediate implementation of the order. Immigration Spokesperson Dana Sandoval stated that the precautionary hold departure order has been entered into the bureau's centralized database and is currently being enforced. This action underscores the agency's commitment to complying with judicial mandates and preventing any unauthorized departures.
The case centers on alleged irregularities in flood control projects, with the plunder charges suggesting significant financial misconduct. The court's intervention highlights the seriousness of the allegations and the judicial system's proactive measures to uphold accountability and justice in matters of public interest.
