Sandro Muhlach. Image: Camp of GMA’s independent contractors says Muhlachs have ‘burden to prove’ claims. Image: Ahleks Fusilero via Instagram/@sandromuhlach
MANILA, Philippines — The alleged abusers of actor Sandro Muhlach — both “independent contractors” working for GMA Network — have been subpoenaed by the Senate committee on public information and mass media.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada made the motion on Wednesday, during a hearing by the panel, to subpoena the contractors — Jojo Nones and Richard Cruz.
“I just would like to give a piece of advice to these two gentlemen: You know, if you get invited to the Senate, do not preempt our questions. I think this letter is totally unacceptable and I move that we subpoena them ad testificandum on the next hearing,” Estrada said, speaking partly in Filipino.
Estrada was referring to the joint letter submitted by Nones and Cruz.
In the letter, which was read during the hearing, Nones and Cruz noted that they were not employees nor part of the management of GMA or Sparkle Artist Management Agency.
Sen. Robinhood Padilla, who heads the panel, recognized Estrada’s motion. It was then seconded by Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr.
“This means that the motion is approved. The committee will issue a subpoena,” Padilla said in Filipino.
Muhlach, son of former child star Niño Muhlach, filed a formal complaint against Nones and Cruz for allegedly sexually abusing him after GMA’s recent gala night.
READ: Showbiz Roundup: Sandro Muhlach and his alleged abusers; other stories
Later into the hearing, Estrada also tried to subpoena Sandro Muhlach.
The young actor, though mentally fit was advised, however, to limit his public speaking engagements, according to the lawyer Marie Marie Catherine Nolasco-Ilesca, chief of the Public Corruption Division of the National Bureau of Investigation.
“Right now, it can have an implication on him. He’s still undergoing mental evaluation,” Illescas said.
Estrada then withdrew his motion.