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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Sandiganbayan allows accused to testify on loss of original documents in graft case

Sandiganbayan allows accused to testify on loss of original documents in graft case

Published Mar 18, 2022 03:45 pm

Sandiganbayan

The Sandiganbayan has granted the plea of the former municipal treasurer of Ronda town in Cebu for his recall as witness to testify on the loss of the original documents he presented in his case.

Esperato A. Del Soccoro’s plea was granted in a resolution issued last March 2.

"The interests of justice will be better served if the Court allows the recall of accused Del Socorro so he can identify such lost documents, and testify on the loss of the same," the Sandiganbayan said.

Del Socorro is the co-accused of former Ronda Mayor Esteban R. Sia. They have been charged with violations of Section 3(e) of R.A. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code on malversation of public funds for their alleged failure to properly liquidate and return public funds amounting to P2.06 million.

The prosecution alleged that on Dec. 31, 2009, Sia and Del Socorro took advantage of their public functions when they, "connived and confederated, and mutually helped each other with deliberate intent" to benefit from the public funds.

Associate Justice Sarah Jane Fernandez wrote the resolution with the concurrence of Associate Justices Karl B. Miranda and Kevin Narce B. Vivero.

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