THE Sandiganbayan Third Division has ordered a 90-day preventive suspension for Senator Rodante Marcoleta in connection with a plunder case and alleged violations of anti-graft laws.
Confirmed on Monday by Third Division Clerk of Court Dennis Pulma, the resolution was penned by Associate Justice Karl B. Miranda and promulgated on October 19.
The charges stem from Marcoleta’s tenure as a SAGIP Party-List representative, where he allegedly amassed ₱75 million in ill-gotten wealth through gifts and donations.
These funds were reportedly received from co-accused former lawmaker Mike Defensor and businessman Aristotle Viray, and were allegedly omitted from his Statement of Contributions and Expenditures.
Additionally, Marcoleta faces a separate charge under Presidential Decree No. 46, which prohibits public officials from accepting gifts in relation to their office.
Under Republic Act No. 7080 (the Plunder Law) and Republic Act No. 3019 (the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act), the court noted that issuing a preventive suspension becomes a ministerial duty once a valid Information is established.
The anti-graft court emphasized that a pre-suspension hearing is not required, stating, “There are no ifs and buts about it.” Marcoleta has been detained at the Quezon City Jail since July 15.
Addressing potential governance concerns, the court assured that Marcoleta’s suspension will not paralyze the legislature.
As a collegial body of 24 senators, the Senate can continue its operations, and its committees retain full functionality through remaining members.
Marcoleta is the second senator to face a suspension by the anti-graft court this month.
On October 12, the Fifth Division imposed a separate 90-day suspension on Senator Jinggoy Estrada over a ₱573-million plunder case linked to an alleged flood control kickback scheme.
Marcoleta’s suspension will automatically lift upon the expiration of the 90-day period.