The Philippine National Police (PNP) will ensure the proper and prompt implementation of the Sandiganbayan’s order directing the release of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel “Manny” Bonoan once all required legal verification and documentation have been completed.
PNP Chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Friday that the organization respects the ruling of the anti-graft court and has directed concerned units to observe due process in implementing the order.
The move is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla to uphold the rule of law and ensure the proper implementation of lawful orders.
“The PNP respects the decision of the Sandiganbayan. We will ensure that the court’s order is properly implemented while allowing the concerned units to complete the necessary verification and documentation,” Nartatez said.
The Sandiganbayan Fifth Division ordered Bonoan’s release on Thursday, 3 September, after dismissing the plunder and graft cases filed against him.
The 81-year-old former DPWH secretary had been confined at the PNP General Hospital following his arrest in June amid the government’s investigation into alleged corruption in flood control projects.
Nartatez directed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to expedite the verification of any other pending cases, warrants or legal impediments that could affect Bonoan’s release.
He also ordered concerned police units to coordinate with the Sandiganbayan, other courts and relevant government agencies to facilitate the release process.
“Our police units must strictly comply with lawful court orders. At the same time, they must exercise due diligence to verify any other legal impediment before releasing a person from police custody,” Nartatez said.
Bonoan remained at Camp Crame overnight as the CIDG conducted the necessary verification. His release was expected to be processed on Friday, 4 September.
