Malacañang on Wednesday rejected Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano’s description of jailed politicians Rodante Marcoleta, Jinggoy Estrada, and Mike Defensor as ‘political prisoners,’ emphasizing the independence of the country’s judiciary.
In a Facebook Live video last week, Cayetano claimed that the Department of Justice and the Office of the Ombudsman were being ‘weaponized’ to advance political interests. ‘I consider Sen. Jinggoy, Sen. Marcoleta, former congressman Mike Defensor-they are political prisoners.’
‘If that is his belief, then it is probably not the same belief held by the Sandiganbayan. He has his own perspective, but the courts may have a different view,’ said Palace press officer Claire Castro during a briefing.
Cayetano also argued that the detained senators should still be allowed to participate in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
However, Castro said the matter ultimately rests with the Sandiganbayan.
‘So, whatever it is that he has stated, if that is what he believes-that there is a political motivation-then perhaps he can represent the two of them as their lawyer and prove it,’ the Palace official said.
‘But there is definitely evidence that has been found, and those two senators will have the opportunity to refute it when they present their defense,’ she added.
Marcoleta filed a manifestation before the Senate, asking whether he and Estrada could participate in the impeachment trial despite the charges against them.
Castro said that whatever decision the Senate may make regarding Marcoleta’s manifestation would not prevail, noting that the jurisdiction over Estrada and Marcoleta now lies with the Sandiganbayan.
‘So, if they are allowed, they would essentially be practicing their profession. If that were the case and they were permitted to do so, would that also mean that all professionals who are detained while their cases are being heard should likewise be allowed to continue working?’ she asked.
‘The Sandiganbayan has already issued a ruling on Senator Jinggoy Estrada’s motion, stating that a detained person cannot be granted what is referred to as ‘virtual freedom.’ At the same time, according to Justice Carpio, individuals who are detained while their graft and corruption cases are being tried-including plunder cases, since plunder is similar in nature-should likewise be suspended from their positions.,’ Castro added