Groups press flood probe, slam Revilla bail

Groups protesting on the eve of the Martial Law anniversary on Sunday called for the continued investigation and prosecution of those allegedly involved in irregularities in flood control projects following former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr.’s temporary release on bail.

Joanna Caumeran, one of the protesters, said more people, including politicians allegedly linked to the controversy, have yet to be held accountable.

“I hope this continues because many people have yet to be jailed and held accountable, including big names and politicians who were involved in the flood control controversy,” Caumeran said.

She also questioned what Revilla’s release could mean for other individuals detained in connection with flood control cases.

“What will happen to the others who are detained? Will they also be released, will they also be given temporary freedom?” she said.

The Sandiganbayan Third Division granted Revilla bail in July in the malversation case involving an alleged P92.8-million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.

Bail denied

The court said prosecutors failed to establish that the evidence of his guilt was strong enough to justify continued detention at the bail stage. Six of his co-accused were denied bail after the court found strong evidence of guilt against them.

Revilla posted a P1-million cash bond and was released on 31 July. The criminal case against him remains pending.

The Office of the Ombudsman has appealed the ruling, arguing that the Sandiganbayan failed to properly consider evidence of Revilla’s alleged participation in the scheme.

Caumeran said continuing flooding made accountability more urgent. “That is why the government should intensify its efforts because we continue to experience flooding to this day,” she said.

The protesters also called for continued accountability for abuses committed during martial law.

Silvia Claudio said the mobilization sought to preserve the historical record amid what she described as attempts to distort it. “It’s as if they are changing what happened in history,” Claudio said.

She said younger Filipinos should remember the past and defend their right to seek the truth. “As the young people here have said, if we forget what we went through, here we are again today,” Claudio said.