‘Euro generals’ a step closer to being cleared of graft

MANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan’s Second Division has allowed the so-called police euro generals to contest evidence against them that they traveled to Russia in 2008 with nearly P7 million in euro notes, way over the $10,000 limit under the law.

In a resolution, the antigraft court allowed Maj. Gen. Eliseo dela Paz, former comptroller of the Philippine National Police, and his eight coaccused to file demurrers to evidence.

A demurrer formally asks the court to determine whether the evidence presented by the prosecution is strong enough to withstand trial. A granted demurrer is tantamount to dismissal of the case.

Also allowed to file demurrers were Lt. Gen. Ismael Rafanan, former chief of the PNP directorial staff; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Cart, former deputy chief for operations; Lt. Gen. Romeo Ricardo, former director for plans; Maj. Gen. German Doria, former director for human resources; Maj. Gen. Jaime Caringal, former chief of the Zamboanga police; Brig. Gen. Orlando Pestaño, Col. Samuel Rodriguez and Col. Tomas Rentoy III.

The case of Dela Paz and his coaccused stems from their trip to Russia in 2008 for the 77th Interpol General Assembly in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Briefly detained

Dela Paz and his wife were briefly detained after they were found carrying 105,000 euros (P6.9 million) that they did not declare. Another P2.9 million was found in the general’s possession.

Dela Paz said the cash was the delegation’s P10-million travel and contingency fund.

But the Office of the Ombudsman said the release of the P10 million in confidential funds of the PNP for the trip of the delegation was irregular since all of the members of the group were due to retire within one year.

In their motions for leave of court to file demurrers, all of the accused said the prosecution had failed to prove their guilt beyond reasonable doubt. —Patricia Denise M. Chiu