MANILA — Malacañang called on the public to trust the judicial process after plunder charges were filed against Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, stressing that the executive branch will not interfere in the case.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remains committed to respecting the constitutional independence of the judiciary.
“There is a clear separation of powers under our Constitution. If Sen. Marcoleta believes he has evidence supporting his position, he should present it before the court,” Castro said during a press briefing in Vancouver, Canada.
She assured the public that the executive branch would not attempt to influence the outcome of the proceedings.
“There will be no pressure, no intimidation, and no intervention from the executive. The President respects the authority of the courts,” she added.
Castro’s remarks followed statements from members of the Iglesia ni Cristo questioning whether the judiciary would fairly hear the case against the senator.
On Friday, the Office of the Ombudsman filed a plunder case before the Sandiganbayan against Marcoleta and three alleged associates over a reported P75-million campaign donation.
The filing came one day after the INC ended a three-day rally held in support of the lawmaker.
Castro said the public should refrain from doubting the courts before the legal proceedings unfold.
“The complaint has only been filed. It is important to allow the justice system to function without unfairly questioning the integrity of our courts,” she said.
She also said the Palace is not anticipating another protest over the case, warning that demonstrations intended to influence government institutions could be viewed as an attempt to pressure authorities.
Castro concluded by saying the Marcos administration would continue to uphold the rule of law and remain unaffected by pressure from any sector.
elamigo/xf
