Jinggoy Estrada calls whistleblower ‘gago’ during plunder trial

Plunder-accused Jinggoy Estrada was scolded by the Sandiganbayan on Monday for uttering the word “gago,” while pork barrel scam whistleblower Benhur Luy was on the witness stand testifying against Estrada.

Associate Justice Rafael Lagos, of the antigraft court’s fifth division, warned Estrada he would be cited in contempt for his behavior.

“I’m sorry, sir,” Estrada said, following the justice’s warning.

Lagos was one of two justices who dissented in the Sandiganbayan’s Sept. 15, 2017 decision, allowing Estrada to post bail.

Estrada uttered the word “gago” while his lawyer, Paul Mar Arias, was cross-examining Luy.

“As far as I’m concerned, Janet Napoles just told me that Senator Jinggoy received [the kickback],” Luy said on cross-examination. —Vince F. Nonato