Mike Arroyo seeks permit to travel

Former first gentleman Mike Arroyo. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–The husband of former President and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has asked the Sandiganbayan to be allowed to travel to Europe from May 17 to June 10 even as he assured the court that he would not evade trial in the graft case filed against him by the government.

In a motion for leave to travel abroad filed before the antigraft court’s 5th Division, Juan Miguel Arroyo sought to remind the court that he has always returned from his trips abroad and complied with its conditions, including posting a travel bond.

The court earlier allowed Arroyo to travel to Japan from March 29 to April 4.

Arroyo and 21 other people, including former Philippine National Police officials, are on trial for graft in connection with the allegedly anomalous sale to the PNP for P105 million of two used helicopters that were passed off as brand new.

He has posted bail and a travel bond for his previous travels which has not been withdrawn.

Arroyo noted that the antigraft court and other courts have graciously permitted him to travel before and that he has always returned since he and his family are based here.

Arroyo said he has also no reason to evade trial as his wife and business interests are all in the country. Cynthia D. Balana

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