The Sandiganbayan 4th Division has granted former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr.’s request for the Office of the Ombudsman to conduct a reinvestigation into his pending malversation case involving the alleged anomalous ₱92.8 million flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.
In its ruling, the anti-graft court approved the motion for leave of court filed by Revilla’s camp, as well as by former Department of Public Works and Highways official Juanito Mendoza.
As a result, the Ombudsman was directed to carry out a fresh probe into the malversation charges against Revilla.
According to Atty. Franchesca Señga, Revilla’s spokesperson, their client was not given the opportunity to properly respond to the case, prompting them to file the motion.
The Ombudsman was given 60 days to issue a ruling on the motion for reconsideration to investigation.
Meanwhile, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano maintained that the earlier probe into the flood control project showed no inconsistencies.
He expressed confidence in the actions taken by the office, stressing that Revilla’s camp had been afforded due process.
“[Nabigyan] ng sapat na pagkakataon ang kampo ni Revilla na ilatag ang kanilang depensa alinsunod sa proseso at due process,” Clavano said.
On the possibility of a reinvestigation, Clavano noted it would be best to await the Ombudsman’s resolution before deciding on the next steps.