Sandigan postpones Cebu Rep. Gwen Garcia’s ‘pre-suspension hearing’

Representative-elect Gwendolyn Garcia. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan postponed its “pre-suspension hearing” against incoming Cebu Representative Gwendolyn Garcia in relation a graft case that had been filed against her.

Associate Justice Teresita Diaz Baldos, who chairs the second division of the anti- graft court, said that they were still awaiting the submission of all pleadings on Garcia’s petition before the court to dismiss the motion seeking her suspension.

“After the court receives the (defense panel’s) reply then it will resolve the motion to suspend. For all intents and purposes this is a pre-suspension hearing,” said Baldos.

Garcia is facing graft charges over the purchase of the 24.92-hectare Balili property in Naga.

The court said that it could not just disregard the defense panel’s motion to quash.

Garcia on Wednesday reported for work as outgoing governor after she finished serving her 180-day suspension by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) last Monday.

“There is still the motion to quash. It’s very simple, they (cannot resolve) the motion to suspend Governor Gwen,” said Garcia’s lead defense counsel Tranquil Salvador III.

“This is okay as far as I’m concerned. We filed a motion to quash May 21, the hearing was set on the 24th and the parties agreed to exchange comments. By June 14 we received their comment and we have 15 days to file a reply,” he said.

Baldos said that the defense has until July 1 to file its reply to the prosecution’s comment.

“With respect to the motion to suspend, the prosecution prayed for and was granted two days from today to file its reply,” she said.

“After the receipt of corresponding pleadings the motion will be submitted for resolution. For all intents and purposes, this is a pre-suspension hearing,” reiterated Baldos.