SANDIGANBAYAN ORDERS 90-DAY SUSPENSION OF JINGGOY ESTRADA OVER GRAFT CHARGES

The Sandiganbayan has ordered the preventive suspension of Senator Jinggoy Estrada for 90 days in connection with the graft case he is facing over the alleged flood control kickback scheme.

The anti-graft court's Second Division issued the suspension order while proceedings in the case continue. Under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, public officials facing valid graft charges may be placed under preventive suspension to prevent them from influencing witnesses, tampering with evidence, or affecting the outcome of the case.

Estrada is among several officials accused in the government's ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities involving flood control projects. Prosecutors claim that kickbacks were obtained from infrastructure contracts, allegations that the senator has repeatedly denied.

The suspension comes amid a series of legal developments involving the lawmaker. Earlier this month, the Sandiganbayan denied his attempt to dismiss the graft charges and proceeded with the case. The court also ordered his arrest in separate graft and plunder cases linked to the same controversy.

Estrada has maintained his innocence, insisting that the accusations against him are unfounded and that he is prepared to defend himself before the courts. He has likewise stated that he will face the legal process rather than seek protection from his position in the Senate.

The 90-day suspension is preventive in nature and does not constitute a finding of guilt. Court proceedings on the graft and plunder charges are expected to continue in the coming weeks as prosecutors and defense lawyers present their respective arguments.