Junjun Binay decries ‘special express suspension,’ vows to exhaust all legal remedies

MANILA, Philippines – Suspended Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay on Wednesday decried his “special express suspension” by the Ombudsman.

“Talagang may special treatment kaming mga Binay: Special Senate hearing, special COA audit, special panel ng Ombudsman, at ngayon special express suspension,” Binay told reporters in a press briefing.

The mayor said his camp was not given the chance to “properly explain and answer” all the allegations hurled against them.

He said his legal counsel has filed a petition for certiorari before the Court of Appeals to ask for a temporary restraining order.

“I will exhaust all available remedies. I will continue discharging my duties as mayor until all legal remedies have been respected,” he said.

Though he belongs to the opposition, he said he is entitled to his rights like any Filipino citizen.

He said their family is expecting that the “lies and unjust persecution” against them would intensify as the 2016 national elections is coming.

“Iisa lang ang naman ang dahilan ng panggigipit nila, para hadlangan ang hangarin ng aking ama na maglingkod sa inyo bilang Presidente ng ating bansa,” he said.

On  Wednesday, the Ombudsman placed Binay and other city officials under preventive suspension as they face investigation for graft in connection with the allegedly overpriced Makati Parking Building II.