MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Justice has removed former First Gentleman Jose Miguel “Mike” Arroyo from its watchlist, 990AM reported.
Former First Gentleman Mike Arroyo. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
The DoJ’s action was in response to a letter sent to Justice Secretary Leila de Lima by Senator Teofisto Guingona III, chairman of the blue ribbon committee in the Senate, informing her that they would no longer summon Arroyo who was linked to the alleged anomalous sale of second-hand helicopters as brand new to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Two of the five helicopters that were sold to the PNP was allegedly owned by the former first gentleman who denied the accusation.
The Senate investigation prompted the DoJ to place Arroyo on its watchlist, which Arroyo himself contested by filing a petition before the Supreme Court to stop the implementation of the order that would have prevented him from leaving the country.
The high court granted Arroyo’s petition, saying that the DoJ violated the former first gentleman’s constitutional rights.