Revilla asks Sandigan: Reconsider freeze order

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr. is asking the Sandiganbayan to reconsider its Feb. 5 decision ordering the garnishment of his assets, amounting to over P224 million, a figure equivalent to the kickbacks or commissions he allegedly received in the pork barrel fund scam. 

In a motion for reconsideration filed before the anti-graft court’s First Division yesterday, Revilla said the issuance of the writ of preliminary attachment – which bars him from disposing, transferring, or hiding his money and property while on trial for plunder – is premature.

Revilla, through his defense counsels now led by lawyer Ramon Esguerra, said the plunder law cannot allow the issuance of a freeze order because it implies prejudgment and violates the constitutional right of an accused to the presumption of innocence. 

His camp said at this stage of the trial – wherein bail hearings are still being conducted – no evidence has been presented to show that the senator received kickbacks or commissions.

Revilla’s lawyers said the testimonies so far, including that of whistleblower Benhur Luy, are hearsay. 

They added that reports by the Anti-Money Laundering Council are based on information from third parties as well as records provided by Luy, that have not been verified.

Revilla questioned why the Office of the Ombudsman is only going after his assets considering that the accusation involves an alleged conspiracy between him and other respondents, such as Richard Cambe and businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles.

The Sandiganbayan, acting on a petition by the ombudsman’s prosecutors, issued a freeze order on Revilla’s assets last week so that the senator would not be able to dispose of his properties, which would eventually be forfeited if ever the court finds him guilty of acquiring, amassing, or accumulating ill-gotten wealth.