Manila, Philippines — Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez entered a not guilty plea to the P7.4-billion plunder case he is facing in connection with his alleged involvement in a kickback scheme linked to the flood control corruption scandal.
On Wednesday, Romualdez appeared via videoconference before the Sandiganbayan Third Division for his arraignment in the case.
This was after the court granted his camp’s motion to allow him to attend the arraignment remotely to avoid any “adverse situation,” particularly in light of his current medical condition.
However, the Sandiganbayan denied Romualdez’s request to waive his right to read his criminal information. According to the court, the proceeding is a public hearing.
His camp confirmed plans to file a petition seeking bail for the case.
Romualdez also has 10 days to explain why he should not be placed under preventive suspension.
COURT DENIES ROMUALDEZ’S HOSPITAL TRANSFER
Meanwhile, the court denied the motion for reconsideration filed by the lawmaker’s camp seeking to have him transferred to a government hospital in Quezon City.
It can be recalled that on September 14, Romualdez was transferred to the Quezon City Jail–Male Dormitory in Payatas from the Philippine General Hospital, after PGH confirmed that the lawmaker’s health condition was manageable and that hospital confinement was no longer necessary.
This also became the basis for the court’s denial of Romualdez’s request for transfer.
The court also emphasized that the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology is not required to grant all requests made by an accused.
This is after Romualdez’s lawyer said that there was no ECG machine at the Payatas jail for his required tests.
According to the Sandiganbayan, the BJMP has the capacity to monitor Romualdez’s condition and can bring him to a hospital if necessary.
The court has also ordered the BJMP to request funding from the Department of Budget and Management for the acquisition of ECG machines which can be used by all persons deprived of liberty who require them.
The pre-marking of evidence is scheduled for September 18, 21, 22, 23, and 24.—Mia Layaguin, Eurotv News