Sandigan asks PNP to comment on Revilla plea to vote with escort

Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. INQUIRER PHOTO

The Sandiganbayan has ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to comment on detained Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr.’s request to vote with police escort on May 9.

In a resolution, the antigraft court ordered the police chief Director Ricardo Marquez to inform the court if it was “logistically feasible on its part to escort (Revilla) and to secure his safety and prevent the escape in connection with his planned voting in Bacoor, Cavite, on May 9, 2016.”

The court gave the PNP at least 24 hours to comment on Revilla’s request after the prosecution opposed it, saying it was impossible for the police to accommodate the senator as it would be too busy ensuring the safety and credibility of the elections.

READ: Bong Revilla’s escort voting opposed

The prosecution added that Revilla may be exposed to security risks and his arrival may also cause “mayhem, considering his status as a politician … and a celebrity,” in Cavite, which is identified as an elections hotspot.

In his motion, Revilla asked the court to allow him to vote with police escort at polling precinct No. 0469-A in Bacoor, Cavite.

Revilla said there was no special polling place at the PNP Custodial Center, where he is detained, for him to cast his vote for the local elections.

Revilla’s wife Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado Revilla is running for Bacoor mayor, while his son Jolo is seeking reelection as vice governor.

READ: Bong Revilla seeks to vote in Cavite–even with escort

Revilla, who has been in detention since June 2014 after surrendering, faces plunder for allegedly receiving P224.5 million in kickbacks from his Priority Development Assistance Funds through ghost projects implemented by accused “pork barrel scam” mastermind Janet Lim Napoles’ spurious foundations.

Revilla and Sen. Jinggoy Estrada have been denied bail, while their coaccused Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile has been allowed to leave detention by the Supreme Court for humanitarian reasons.

RELATED STORY

Sandiganbayan denies bail pleas of Bong Revilla, Napoles, Cambe