Ombudsman prosecutors seek Sandiganbayan justice’s inhibition from Revilla malversation case

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 26, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

Ombudsman prosecutors have asked Sandiganbayan Senior Associate Justice Ronald Moreno to inhibit himself from the malversation case of former senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., citing concerns over his alleged conduct toward prosecution witnesses.

In a 69-page motion, prosecutors claimed Moreno’s clarificatory questioning during court proceedings showed “unwarranted conduct” that could raise doubts about his impartiality.

The prosecution alleged that Moreno’s demeanor and questioning toward witnesses appeared “unfair, unreasonable, disrespectful, and lacking in judicial restraint.” It also argued that some of his questions and statements in open court may have created the impression that he had already formed conclusions about the credibility of the witnesses and their testimonies.

Prosecutors stressed, however, that the motion was not intended to question Moreno’s integrity, competence or good faith.

Instead, they said the request was aimed at protecting the right of litigants to have their cases heard by an impartial tribunal and maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice.

“Even where actual bias is wanting, but where there are circumstances that reasonably create perception of partiality and bias, the same warrant an inhibition,” the prosecution said.

Moreno was one of two Sandiganbayan justices who voted to grant Revilla bail in the pending malversation case.

Revilla posted ₱1 million cash bail on July 31 after the Sandiganbayan Third Division approved his request for provisional liberty.

The case involves an allegedly anomalous ₱92.8-million flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan. Revilla had been detained at the New Quezon City Jail in Barangay Payatas before posting bail.