MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday conducted the first preliminary investigation hearing into the plunder complaint filed against Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada and former senator Ramon Revilla Jr. in connection with the anomalous flood control projects.
DOJ spokesman Polo Martinez said the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) was given until Feb. 12 to file additional documents, after which the respondents may opt to file counter affidavits.
“The NBI requested for additional days to submit documents in support of their complaint. They were given an opportunity to do so, at which time Bong Revilla and all other respondents will then file their counter-affidavits,” Martinez told reporters.
Martinez said the next hearing will be held on Feb. 12.
“We’ll see how it proceeds from there,” he added.
Estrada skipped the hearing and was represented by his counsel, Bianca Soriano, who declined to talk to the media.
Former Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan also appeared during the initial hearing.
Bonoan declined to answer in detail but said he understands the gravity of the accusation.
“I don’t know, I have to study it very well. It is pretty serious since it is plunder,” Bonoan, who earlier denied the accusation, said.
Martinez said the respondents who have not yet been charged before the court may still travel, but will be placed under strict monitoring.
“As long as they are respondents and they have not been charged, they have the right to travel anywhere they wish to do so,” he said. “Once they are placed under immigration lookout bulletin order, they will be monitored.”
