Imelda Marcos says absence during case promulgation due to ‘infirmities’

Former First Lady Imelda Marcos said her absence during the promulgation of her cases at the Sandiganbayan was due to “infirmities.”

In a motion filed by the camp of Mrs. Marcos before the Sandiganbayan on November 12, it stated that “multiple organ infirmities” prevented her from attending the promulgation.

“The Accused was suffering from multiple organ infirmities and was under strict orders by her physician to refrain from stressful conditions that will put her at risk for heart and brain attack and recurrence of seizure,” Marcos said in her motion.

A copy of Mrs. Marcos’ medical certificate was attached to the document.

Meanwhile, the incumbent Ilocos Norte Representative “humbly” apologized to the court for her “absence during the scheduled promulgation of judgement,” which was set on November 9.

In her motion to seek post-conviction remedies, Mrs. Marcos asked the Sandiganbayan to grant her “leave to avail of the remedies provided under the Rules of Criminal Procedure against her judgement of conviction.”

Mrs. Marcos was seen with other government officials to celebrate the birthday of her daughter, Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, hours after the Sandiganbayan’s promulgation of her cases.

She was found guilty of seven out of 10 counts of graft by the Sandiganbayan’s Fifth Division for violating R. A. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, when she transferred around $200 million to seven Swiss foundations during her term as a member of the defunct Batasang Pambansa, as Metro Manila Governor, and as then Minister of Human Settlements.

READ: Imelda Marcos guilty of graft, ordered arrested

Following her absence on the promulgation of her cases, the Sandiganbayan has forfeited her bail.

READ: Sandiganbayan forfeits Imelda Marcos’ bail 

The widow of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos also announced her candidacy for the May 2019 elections to replace her daughter as Ilocos Norte Governor. /ee