Mikey Arroyo, wife to be arraigned Wednesday on tax evasion charge

MANILA, Philippines—Representative Juan Miguel “Mikey” Arroyo and his wife are scheduled to be arraigned at a Quezon City court Wednesday on charges of tax evasion for not filing income tax returns for a number of years.

Arroyo, who represents the party list Ang Galing Pinoy, and his wife will enter their plea before Judge Marie Christine Jacob of the Regional Trial Court Branch 100.

The congressman has been charged with tax evasion along with his wife, Angela. Arroyo faces three counts of tax evasion for not filing his ITRs for taxable years 2007 to 2009.

Angela, on the other hand, has been charged with tax evasion on seven counts for failing to file ITRs for taxable from 2003 to 2009.

In a text message, the couple’s lawyer,  Ruy Alberto Rondain, confirmed that the arraignment is set for 8:30 a.m. Wednesday.

“Yes, we will be there,” he said.

Last year, Angela posted bail of P140,000 while her husband’s bail was increased from P20,000 per count to P60,000. This was after the court allowed the congressman to fly to the United States and remain there on “semi-official” business from November 14 to December 7.

The solon posted bail amounting to P180,000 to ensure his return to the country. Arroyo promptly returned to the Philippines.