Revilla seeks dismissal of malversation case

The camp of former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. has asked the Sandiganbayan Third Division for permission to file a demurrer to evidence, arguing that prosecutors failed to present sufficient evidence to convict him of malversation in connection with alleged flood control kickbacks.

In their motion, Revilla’s lawyers argued that the prosecution’s evidence-in-chief failed to establish his participation in the alleged crime.

They said there was no “competent proof” that Revilla had facilitated or caused the inclusion of the alleged ghost flood control project in the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA), or that he received kickbacks.

The defense also maintained that former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan’s testimony showed nothing irregular or improper about Revilla submitting a list of projects for funding under his so-called “leadership fund.”

“The prosecution’s own evidence even shows that there is nothing illegal about seeking funding for an infrastructure project under the DPWH’s Senate Leadership Fund,” the lawyers stressed.

Revilla’s camp further argued that prosecutors could not secure a conviction because they had failed to present “strong evidence of guilt” against the former senator, even during the bail hearings.

“All told, the prosecution’s evidence failed to overcome the quantum of proof required to convict accused Revilla, which is proof beyond reasonable doubt, of the offense charged against him in the Information,” the motion stated.

“For such failure, it is respectfully submitted that accused Revilla must be acquitted of the offense charged,” it added.

A demurrer to evidence asks the court to dismiss a case on the ground that the prosecution has failed to present sufficient evidence to warrant a conviction. Under the rules of criminal procedure, an accused may seek the court’s permission to file the motion or file it without leave, subject to the applicable procedural consequences.

On 31 July, the Sandiganbayan Third Division, in a 2-1 ruling, allowed Revilla to post bail in the malversation case. He posted a P1-million cash bond on the same day.

Revilla is accused of receiving kickbacks in connection with a P92.8-million flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.

Also charged in the case are officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ Bulacan First District Engineering Office.