MANILA — Senate President Francis Escudero has signed an order on Wednesday to release Jojo Nones, an independent contractor for GMA Network, from Senate custody.
The decision came after Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada accepted a written apology from Nones for his conduct during the previous committee hearing on the alleged rape of GMA Network actor Sandro Muhlach.
Earlier on Wednesday, Estrada’s office distributed a digital copy of Nones’ apology letter to Senate reporters. In the letter, Nones acknowledged that his words and tone might have seemed “disrespectful” and expressed regret for allowing his emotions to take over.
“I received a letter from him yesterday, an apology letter for his demeanor during the hearing. He acknowledged he was disrespectful and regretted his actions,” Estrada told reporters.
“Sabi niya the anxiety and stress I have been experiencing due to my detention unfortunately clouded my judgment and I did not express myself in the manner intended. Yun.”
“Yes, I accept his apology, but I have to warn him that if this kind of behavior happens again, he might face another penalty or possibly be detained again,” Estrada added.
Estrada expressed disappointment over Nones’ conduct during the hearing, but noted, “I understand… he was always invoking his right against self-incrimination, which I understand.”
Estrada also mentioned that he had consulted with Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media Chair Robinhood Padilla, who had already signed the release order. The order only required the signature of Senate President Escudero.
In his letter to Escudero, Estrada mentioned he had accepted Nones’ apology and considered the network contractor’s physical and mental health.
“Therefore, should the committee recommend lifting his order of arrest and detention, I will interpose no objection, for humanitarian considerations,” Estrada wrote.
Estrada signed his letter in the presence of Nones and Senate reporters at the Senate press office.
During the meeting, Nones reiterated his apology, citing emotional distress. Estrada informed him that Padilla had signed the release order and that he would deliver his own letter and the release order to Escudero.
“I think he is sincere in his apology. I even asked him again why his demeanor was like that during the hearing. At least he did not invoke his right to self-incrimination,” Estrada said to reporters.
Estrada also mentioned that he would advise Padilla to conclude the hearings soon, as he is considering drafting legislation based on the hearings.
“I will advise him to finish the hearings. I plan to draft legislation myself. Perhaps stiffer penalties for sexual harassment,” Estrada noted.