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 Senate panel on public information and mass media ordered the issuance of a subpoena against Jojo Nones and Richard Cruz, “independent contractors” working for GMA Network, who were earlier identified as the alleged abusers of actor Sandro Muhlach.
It was Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada who made the motion during the panel’s Wednesday hearing.
“I just would like to give a piece of advice to these two gentlemen — alam niyo, kapag iniimbitahan kayo sa Senado, huwag niyo i-preempt ang aming mga tanong (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,” said Estrada.
Estrada was pertaining to the joint letter submitted by Nones and Cruz.
In the document, which was read during the hearing, Nones and Cruz noted that they are 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. Bong Revilla who was also present during the proceeding.
“Ito po, ang ibig sabihin ang motion po ay approved. Mag i-issue po ng subpoena ang komite,” said Padilla.
(This means that the motion is approved. The committee will issue a subpoena.)
Muhlach, son of former child star Niño Muhlach, filed a formal complaint against Nones and Cruz for allegedly sexually abusing the young actor after GMA’s recent gala night.
READ: Showbiz Roundup: Sandro Muhlach and his alleged abusers; other stories
Later into the hearing, Estrada likewise tried to subpoena Sandro Muhlach.
National Bureau of Investigation’s Chief of Public Corrupt Division Atty. Marie Catherine Nolasco-Ilescas, however, explained that although Muhlach is mentally fit based on the findings provided by the NBI’s behavioral science division, he is still advised to limit his public speaking engagements.
“Right now, pwede magkaroon ng implication sa kanya (it can have an implication on him). He’s still undergoing mental evaluation,” said Illescas.
With this, Estrada withdrew his motion.