Sandiganbayan orders Marcoleta’s 90-day suspension over ₱75M plunder case

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 20, 2026

Photo courtesy: PTV News

MANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan has ordered the 90-day preventive suspension of Senator Rodante Marcoleta over a plunder case involving ₱75 million in alleged undeclared campaign donations.

In a resolution issued Monday, October 19, the anti-graft court’s Third Division directed Marcoleta to stop performing his duties as senator or holding any other public office for 90 days upon receiving the order.

The suspension will automatically end once the 90-day period expires.

Court cites mandatory suspension under the law

The Sandiganbayan said the suspension is required under Republic Act No. 7080, or the Plunder Law, and Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

The court explained that preventive suspension becomes mandatory once it determines that the formal charges against an accused public official are valid.

It also ruled that a separate hearing was unnecessary before issuing the suspension order.

Marcoleta had raised concerns about the court’s jurisdiction and argued that the suspension could affect his constitutional rights.

However, the Sandiganbayan maintained that these arguments could be addressed during trial.

What is the ₱75-million plunder case about?

The charges stem from allegations that Marcoleta received ₱75 million from three individuals while serving as a SAGIP Party-list representative.

Prosecutors allege that the money came from former congressman Mike Defensor and businessmen Joseph Espiritu and Aristotle Viray.

The alleged contributions were broken down as follows:

• Mike Defensor – ₱30 million
• Joseph Espiritu – ₱25 million
• Aristotle Viray – ₱20 million

Prosecutors claim that the amounts were not properly declared in connection with Marcoleta’s 2025 senatorial campaign.

Apart from plunder, Marcoleta faces three counts of violating Presidential Decree No. 46, which prohibits public officials from receiving certain gifts related to their government positions.

Marcoleta has denied wrongdoing and sought bail while the case proceeds.

Suspension will not disrupt Senate operations

The Sandiganbayan also addressed concerns about the suspension’s effect on the Senate.

It explained that the chamber could continue its legislative work even without Marcoleta’s participation.

Senate committees may likewise carry out their responsibilities through their remaining members.

Marcoleta has been detained since July 2026 following his arrest in connection with the plunder case.

He is the second senator to receive a 90-day preventive suspension this month. On October 12, the Sandiganbayan also ordered Senator Jinggoy Estrada suspended over a separate plunder case.

What’s next for Marcoleta?

The prosecution completed its presentation of evidence in the plunder case on October 12 after presenting seven witnesses during the bail hearings and trial proceedings.

Marcoleta’s legal team is scheduled to begin presenting its evidence on Thursday, October 22.

The preventive suspension is separate from the criminal proceedings and does not constitute a finding of guilt.

The plunder case remains pending before the Sandiganbayan.