Unfazed by the warrant of arrest issued by the Sandiganbayan, Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito maintained his innocence on Wednesday, insisting that the graft case filed against him was “undoubtedly politically motivated by oppositionists at the local scene.”
The case stemmed from the allegedly anomalous purchase of high-powered firearms worth P2.1 million in 2008 when he was still mayor of San Juan City.
READ: JV Ejercito, San Juan Vice Mayor Zamora face graft raps over P2.1-M gun deal
“I maintain my innocence and deny any wrongdoing in the purchase of high-powered firearms in 2008,” Ejercito said in a statement.
“I am not worried that the Sandiganbayan issued a warrant of arrest against me. I know I did no wrong, and that this case is undoubtedly politically motivated by oppositionists at the local scene.”
READ: Sandiganbayan orders arrest of JV Ejercito for graft
“Nevertheless, I will abide by the legal process and will prepare an adequate defense for this case,” the senator added.
Ejercito’s mother, reelectionist San Juan Mayor Guia Gomez, is running against erstwhile ally, incumbent Vice Mayor Francis Zamora.
READ: JV Ejercito: Revival of case over arms purchase rivals’ handiwork
The senator expressed confidence that the court of law would conduct fair proceedings and exercise wise judgment.
“In the end, I also hope to restore my honor and dignity as a senator of the republic, and as a former San Juan City mayor who only thought of the protection and interests of the people of San Juan against lawless elements,” he said. RC