HDO vs Arroyo, 3 others out

MANILA, Philippines – The Fourth Division of the Sandiganbayan issued hold departure orders (HDO) against former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and three others in relation to the graft charges that were filed against them that stemmed from the botched NBN-ZTE deal.

Also included in the HDOs were former first gentleman Mike Arroyo, former election chief Benjamin Abalos, and former communication secretary Leandro Mendoza.

The HDO came a day after the three cases against them were raffled to the Fourth Division of the graft court.

The former President is facing two counts of graft and one count of violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Another graft case also awaits her, along with former National Telecommunication Commission chairman Ruel Canobas, over allegations of illegal frequencies trading, said lawyer Roberto Guevarra last Monday.

He said the illegal frequencies trading resulted to the resurrection of Altimax Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)in 2007. Guevarra is referring to the revival ABC’s legislative franchise, which expired in 2005.

The franchise allowed Altimax to establish, operate and maintain radio and television broadcasting facilities in the Philippines within five years or until 2005.

But upon inspection, NTC reported that no Altimax offices or stations ever existed.