Senator Jinggoy Estrada on Monday said he is confident that “the truth will prevail” after a San Juan court denied his request for a temporary restraining order against former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan First District Assistant Engineer Brice Hernandez.

Lawyer Ernest Levanza, Hernandez’s legal counsel, said this was in connection with the injunction case Estrada filed with the San Juan Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 160.

In a statement, Estrada’s spokesperson, lawyer Bianca Soriano, clarified that the recent resolution of the San Juan RTC denied only the prayer for the issuance of a TRO.

Soriano explained that Estrada’s application for a writ of preliminary injunction remains pending and will be heard on 12 November, where both parties will have the opportunity to present their arguments and evidence.

“Importantly, the court’s resolution itself included a categorical reminder that any further public statements or discussions regarding the subject matter of the case are already covered by the sub judice rule,” Soriano said.

“The court expressly proscribed comments, whether made through traditional media or digital platforms, that could influence the court, prejudice the issues, or obstruct the administration of justice,” she added.

Soriano said Estrada fully respects and will abide by this judicial proscription, consistent with his unwavering faith in the rule of law and the integrity of the courts.

She added that the senator maintains that the proper forum for the vindication of rights is the courtroom, not the media.

“The senator will continue to pursue all legal remedies available to ensure accountability for those who violate his rights, spread falsehoods, or attempt to tarnish his hard-earned reputation,” Soriano said.

Previously, Hernandez linked Estrada to alleged anomalous flood control projects during an inquiry of the House Infrastructure Committee, claiming that the senator received a 30 percent kickback from the projects.

Estrada, however, has repeatedly denied the allegations. In October, the senator filed a perjury complaint against the former DPWH engineer.