Senator Jinggoy Estrada formally expressed his respect for the judicial system, vowing to prove his innocence after the Sandiganbayan’s Second Division ordered a 90-day preventive suspension against him.
The directive stems from ongoing graft and plunder charges involving allegations of kickbacks connected to state-funded flood control projects.
In an official statement released after the anti-graft court’s ruling, Estrada emphasized that he had taken proactive measures to demonstrate that his legislative position would not be used to evade the charges.
”Even prior to the issuance of the Sandiganbayan’s Order today, I have already taken clear and deliberate steps to demonstrate that I will not, and will never, use the powers and privileges of my office to shield myself from the allegations being hurled against me,” Estrada said.
The lawmaker cited his decision to waive protective custody from the Senate and his voluntary surrender to authorities upon the issuance of his arrest warrant as proof of his full cooperation.
He also disclosed that he had immediately directed the Senate secretariat to halt his monthly salary during the legal proceedings.
”Kasabay ng aking desisyon na hindi magpasailalim sa protective custody ng Senado at ang aking boluntaryong pagsuko sa mga awtoridad nang lumabas ang warrant of arrest laban sa akin ay ang agarang pagbibigay-alam ko sa Senate Secretary na ipatigil muna ang aking sahod,” he stated.
Estrada explained that these actions were intended to remove any public suspicion that he was utilizing his public office for personal protection.
”Hindi ako nagdalawang-isip sa mga hakbang na ito sapagkat malinaw sa akin na walang puwang ang personal na interes sa gitna ng isang prosesong layuning linawin ang katotohanan,” he added.
Under Section 13 of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, a preventive suspension is mandatory to prevent an accused official from tampering with state evidence or influencing potential witnesses during an active trial.
Estrada is currently held at the New Quezon City Jail over his alleged involvement in a ₱573 million kickback scheme tied to flood control contracts.
Despite his current detention, the senator maintained his commitment to clearing his name through proper legal channels.
”At this stage, I remain open to availing myself of all legal remedies under the law,” he said.
The senator and his co-accused are scheduled for arraignment in the coming weeks.