Sandiganbayan denies Biazon plea

The Sandiganbayan has denied the motion for reconsideration filed by Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon, upholding his conviction for graft stemming from the misuse of P3 million in Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) in 2006.

In a resolution dated 5 November 2025, the court affirmed its earlier ruling that found Biazon guilty of violating Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which penalizes public officials who cause undue injury to the government or give unwarranted benefits to private entities. The denial means Biazon's conviction and associated penalties remain in full force and effect.

The court rejected Biazon’s argument that his endorsement of the Philippine Social Development Foundation, Inc. (PSDFI), a non-government organization linked to Janet Lim-Napoles, was merely a recommendation.

Sandiganbayan disclosed that the endorsement effectively directed the Technology Resource Center (TRC) to channel his PDAF to the NGO, making him accountable for ensuring its legitimacy and the proper use of funds.

It ruled that Biazon’s failure to verify the NGO’s credentials and monitor the project's implementation amounted to gross inexcusable negligence, leading to the misuse of public money.

To recall, the Sandiganbayan in its 30 May 2025 decision sentenced Biazon and three co-accused to an indeterminate prison term of six years and one month to eight years, along with perpetual disqualification from public office. They were, however, acquitted of malversation due to insufficient evidence.

Following the ruling, Biazon said he would appeal his conviction to the Supreme Court, maintaining his innocence.

"The Constitution ensures that you are innocent until due process is exhausted with finality," Biazon said. "I will avail of the legal remedies provided under the law and bring the case before the Supreme Court so that the truth will prevail."

He expressed confidence that the high court would find sufficient grounds to acquit him, as the Sandiganbayan had done previously in clearing him of bribery and malversation charges.

"I am innocent of the charges hurled against me. I did not steal from the Filipino people," Biazon added.

With the denial of his motion for reconsideration, Biazon's graft conviction and corresponding penalties remain in effect pending his appeal before the Supreme Court.